COUNCILLOR Albert Wooldridge has been selected by Devizes Town Council to be the next deputy mayor.

At a full council meeting, the last to be presided over by current mayor, Sarah Bridewell, councillors voted unanimously for Coun Wooldridge who will be the town mayor for the year 2016 to 2017 following Coun Roger Giraud-Saunders.

Coun Wooldridge was first elected to Devizes Town Council in 2013 and is a Devizes Guardian representing the East Ward.

He said: “I am really pleased that I got 100 per cent of the vote although my wife Sylvia is a bit nervous as she is not used to having her picture take and neither am I.

"This is the first time anyone in my family has been in this type of role and I have some big shoes to fill following on from Coun Bridewell and Coun Nash.

“I will use the next year to learn more about the role and it will also give me a chance to think about what charities I would like to support in my year as mayor.”

Coun Wooldridge first got involved in local politics as a parish councillor for Roundway between 2010 and 2013.

He said: “My aims are to help improve the standard and quality of life within Devizes and Roundway.”

In his spare time the 72-year-old, of Bricksteed Lane, has said he enjoys carp fishing, gardening and breeding budgies.

He has spoken out recently on issues such as the redevelopment of The Shambles, and was one of only two councillors to object to the planning application

He has also been in support of the BMX track plans saying he thought it would be a great addition to the skate park and for young people in the town.

Current Mayor Coun Bridewell has said Coun Wooldridge will do a great job and is very suited to the role.

She said: “As outgoing mayor I get to put forward my choice for the next deputy mayor.

“I choose Albert because he is really passionate about Devizes and is always getting involved.”

Coun Wooldridge will take up his new post in May.