COLCHESTER has welcomed a new mayor in the form of a veteran Conservative councillor after Tim Young’s one-year term came to an end.

At the Old Library on Wednesday, councillors from all parties assembled to warmly welcome John Jowers – a Mersea and Pyefleet councillor of 27 years – who took the hotseat after serving as deputy mayor to Tim Young.

In a relaxed and congenial atmosphere, jokes were exchanged in good nature from all parties, with Essex County Council leader Kevin Bentley getting the proceedings underway.

Gazette: Rousing – Kevin Bentley gave a lighthearted speech which was well received by the chamberRousing – Kevin Bentley gave a lighthearted speech which was well received by the chamber (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

Addressing a packed chamber to propose a motion for Mr Jowers to be named mayor, he said: “If you read the Roman Chronicles, it will recall that when the Emperor Claudius arrived in Colchester on the back of an elephant, the first person he met was John Jowers.”

He continued: “John has served his constituents with distinction – he is the epitome of public service and is a thoroughly lovely man.

“I move that John Jowers becomes the mayor of Colchester for the ensuing municipal year.”

Seconding the motion, Julie Young said: “I’m delighted to support the nomination.

“John is known in our house as ‘JJ’ – we don’t normally like Tories in our house, but he once visited my son’s school and it left a memory on my young son who has always called him JJ.

Gazette: Tribute – Labour and Co-Operative group leader Julie Young said although they are on different sides of the political spectrum, there are causes they have fought for together in recent yearsTribute – Labour and Co-Operative group leader Julie Young said although they are on different sides of the political spectrum, there are causes they have fought for together in recent years (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

“He may be a Tory, but I know he came from a family with decent values,” Mrs Young joked.

After being dressed in the mayor’s robes and official regalia, Mr Jowers took his seat at the Old Library, and quipped: “You’ve got to enjoy it, haven’t you really.

“There are certain times of year when this community gets together and represents the beating heart of this city on the hill.

“Special thanks go to Tim and Nicola – I think they have done absolutely amazing this year.

Gazette: So help me God – John Jowers takes an oath as he prepares to be sworn in as mayorSo help me God – John Jowers takes an oath as he prepares to be sworn in as mayor (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

“This town just has something about it.

“At the end of the day, there’s a core of altruism [at the council] – we make good decisions and people are good councillors.

“I say thanks to everyone and I say thanks to this amazing city.”