A former Braintree history and economics teacher is the new mayor of Chelmsford.

Long-serving councillor John Hunnable took up the post as the town's first citizen at Chelmsford Council's annual meeting last night.

A teacher at Braintree College for 25 years, he has been a councillor for Waterhouse Farm ward since 1976, during which time he has only had one four-year break. He also worked at Moulsham School.

Born in Braintree, he moved to Chelmsford in 1959, when he married his wife, and now mayoress, Pamela.

His interests include history, walking coastal paths, travel, railway development, environmental issues and spending time with his family of three sons, one daughter and five grandchildren.

In his first address to councillors, he said: "It's a great honour and I look forward to representing Chelmsford over the coming year. I welcome returning councillors and specially welcome new councillors. Much has been achieved and much is to be achieved."

At the meeting, he also announced his two chosen charities Chelmsford Home Start and Chelmsford Cross Roads.

The former supports young families under strain and the latter provides carers for carers who need a break. Both help reduce the strain on the social services.

Councillor for Goat Hall, Freda Mountain, is deputy mayor.

Councillors also paid tribute in the vote of thanks to outgoing mayor Maurice Hurrell, councillor for Little Baddow, Danbury and Sandon.

Published Friday, May 23, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette