Royal Leamington Spa has appointed a new mayor.

Cllr Ruggy Singh (Willes ward) was nominated and elected as the new Mayor of Royal Leamington Spa, officially taking on the role during the Town Council's annual meeting yesterday (15 May).

The meeting was held in the Assembly Hall at the Royal Pump Rooms.

Cllr Singh's election marks the end of Cllr Judith Clarke's term as mayor.

Upon his appointment, Cllr Singh expressed gratitude to his predecessor for her contribution to the town, stating that she had made "a real difference" to the community.

He said: "I couldn't ask for a better town, that is as culturally diverse and vibrant as Leamington Spa.

"I was born and raised right here in Leamington.

"I am truly honoured to serve this town that I call home."

Cllr Singh has a background in logistics, having worked for companies such as Boots and John Lewis.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, he set up online groups to help keep the community connected.

He has also been actively involved in supporting both local and national charities, including Helping Hands, Make a Wish, the British Heart Foundation, Myton Hospice, and, more recently, Stand Up to Racism.

For his mayoral year, Cllr Singh has chosen to support Flourish as his designated charity.

Flourish is a Warwickshire-based Christian organisation that supports girls aged 10 to 18, helping them to build confidence, resilience and self-worth.

Cllr Singh explained his reasons behind choosing the charity: "Due to my own personal experiences, I am passionate about helping people with disabilities, whether they are physical or mental.

"Flourish is a local charity celebrating its 10th anniversary.

"Based at the Sydni Centre, it began mentoring at Campion School in 2015 and now supports 24 schools in and around Leamington Spa.

"I feel that supporting this local charity is important as it makes a significant difference in young people's lives."

The charity currently works with more than 1,400 young girls through workshops and mentoring programmes, and Cllr Singh explained he hopes to help the charity support another 500 girls this year.

Cllr Singh added: "Thank you, everyone, for your support. I look forward to the year ahead."