A councillor was officially recognised as the new Mayor of Epsom and Ewell at the council’s annual Mayor Making ceremony on Tuesday.

Councillor Jan Mason will have the support of former Mayor Councillor Alan Winkworth as a Deputy Mayor and already has number of civic events planned throughout the year including visits to residents, community groups and sports groups as well as representing the borough at the Epsom Derby.

Coun Mason’s husband Alan will accompany her on her civic duties.

She said: “I have lived in Ruxley for 42 years and love the area. I am honoured to be Mayor for this fantastic Borough for the next year and I am especially looking forward to meeting so many people who live, work and support Epsom and Ewell in so many ways.”

The mother of two has chosen to support Hearing Dogs for the Deaf, Riding for the Disabled and St John Ambulance during her Civic year.

Coun Mason said: “All three charities have an enormous positive impact on people’s lives. I became aware of Riding for the Disabled when my daughter volunteered there while at school.

"I realised learning riding skills made a difference in other areas such as building confidence and even improving posture.

"Hearing Dogs for the Deaf is such a vital charity as their specially trained dogs make life much easier for those who have this disability.

“I value the work of the St John Ambulance, who attend many events in the Borough, including Riding for the Disabled. They are a dedicated group who give up their time to help keep others safe.”

Coun Mason was elected to Epsom & Ewell Borough Council in 1995 and has served on several Council committees including Planning and Leisure.

She was vice-chairman of Planning for four years prior to becoming Chairman of Planning in 2007. She has also been Chairman of the Youth Leisure Forum since 2000, represented the Council on the Ewell Court House Advisory Group and a Board Member at Rosebery Housing Association for eight years.

Her position as chairman of planning will be taken over by Councillor Graham Dudley with Councillor Michael Arthur as vice chairman.

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