A NEW mayor has taken up the chains of office in Maldon.

Abdul Hafiz was elected by town councillors at their annual meeting on Monday, which was held virtually due to Covid-19.

Mr Hafiz, known as Jhual, is well known to residents having been in business in Maldon for 33 years.

He said: “The role of town mayor in Maldon goes back to 1874 and it is indeed an honour for me to be a part of that great heritage.

“Not only is the town mayor the figurehead of the town council, but of the town also.

“I have lived with my family and worked in the town for many years, so I know what a great town Maldon is.

“It will be my privilege to support the good works of many local people which preserve the economic, cultural and social well-being of the town.”

Mr Hafiz is also president of the Maldon District Islamic Cultutal Association and previously served as deputy town mayor in 2017-18.

He added: “As we come through these testing times, I will be supporting charities including RNLI in Maldon, Action for Family Carers and Achieving Recovery Through Sport, by holding fundraising events in the town as circumstances permit and the threat from Covid-19 recedes.

“Maldon Town Council will work tirelessly during this civic year for the benefit of local residents and businesses and I look forward to seeing people out and about again enjoying everything that the town has to offer.”

David Ogg was elected as deputy town mayor, and he will be supported by wife Sharon as deputy town mayoress.