CHRISTCHURCH has welcomed its new mayor.

Cllr Paul Hilliard was appointed during the annual mayor making ceremony.

The event saw Cllr Hilliard take over the mayoral responsibilities from his predecessor, Cllr Vivienne Charrett, during the ceremony on May 29.

Cllr Hilliard said: "It is an honour and privilege to be granted the role of Mayor of Christchurch.”

Born and raised in Barton on Sea, he currently lives on the Hoburne Farm estate with his wife Helen and their sons, Sean and Luke.

Reflecting on his lifelong association with Christchurch, Cllr Hilliard said: "I have seen some enormous change in our area over this time. However, we all call Christchurch our home because of the underlying character, iconic heritage buildings, natural open spaces, and beautiful beaches remain the same."

Cllr Hilliard's vision for his tenure is to build on the community and business respect for Christchurch that Cllr Charrett fostered.

He said: "My essential aim for the coming year is to carry on the excellent work started by my predecessor, to build community and business respect for looking after Christchurch now and for future generations.”

The new mayor is set for a busy year, with plans to attend various events, including the Christchurch Carnival, Christchurch Civic Day and during his tenure Cllr Hilliard will interact with all of Christchurch’s Twinned Towns.