MONMOUTH'S outgoing mayor Cllr Anthea Dewhurst said: "The undertaking of the historic position this council has resulted in a huge amount to enjoy and remember.

"Following last year's elections the new council was an impressive set of lively, determined and extremely independent individuals.

"Much is just beginning: Monmouth's new status as the first Fairtrade Town in the county, needs nurturing.

"There is the exciting prospect of school-age representatives at our community committee meetings and the new structure of the council itself.

"We hope that the four committees will ensure planned, budgeted action over our remaining three years co-ordinated by the full town council and the new mayor.

"Councillors are purposeful and optimistic, having voted unanimously for the new system. We are keen to take on responsibility.

"There have been a number of occasions I shall remember with pride. "The exemplary care with which Colonel David Caulfield and Monmouth's Royal Engineers prepared for The Duke of Gloucester's visit to present medals to the soldiers who served in Iraq and celebrate a safe return, is something I shall never forget.

"So many people in this town give their time, their skills and devotion all year round and with no expectation of any recognition.

"Monmouth's music must be outstanding. What other town could boast so many expert singers and instrumentalists?

"Strangely the acute horror of the Tsunami. united and highlighted Monmouth at its best. So much energy and urgency was inspiring. It was one of the most moving things to witness.

"To represent Monmouth at such a time. was a huge honour. The freely given talent, demonstrated by the young bands at the Monster Music Night in aid of the disaster is just one example.

"The recorded total that Monmouth people have given stands at over £72,000 on the Shire Hall's giant thermometer."