Alliance Alderman Billy Webb has become the new Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, offering a positive, progressive vision for the area in the year ahead.

Almost 24 years since he was first elected, Alderman Webb said it was an “honour” to take up the role, with friends and family present.

He added: “We have all faced hardships over the last year, which is why looking ahead I hope to acknowledge the voluntary community, the business community and the volunteers who have done so much for all of us throughout the pandemic.

“This is an opportunity not just to recover; it is a chance for change, and to build back better and to do this together as a united Council group.

“I have selected two charities to support during my year, the Children’s Hospice and the Antrim & Newtownabbey Women’s Aid. The Children’s Hospice relies on public support for the invaluable service they provide, and fundraising has been greatly hampered because of the pandemic. Women’s Aid has been to the forefront of assisting the victims of domestic violence and the instances of this have increased considerably because of lockdown. They also rely on public support and fundraising has been difficult.

“I look forward to the year ahead and getting out and about as much as covid regulations will allow me to meet as many of you and celebrate everything at the heart of our community.”