A FAMILIAR face has returned as Bude-Stratton’s mayor after being voted back into the role for a second time.

At its annual Mmeeting held on Monday, May 12, Bude-Stratton Town Council elected a new mayor and deputy mayor to serve for the 2025/26 civic year.

Cllr Mike Dawe has been re-elected as mayor of Bude-Stratton, having previously served in the role during the 2023/24 civic year. However, there is a new face in the deputy role, as Cllr Viki Herbert-Coulson was voted in to take on the role.

Following his election, Cllr Dawe has expressed that he is keen to ‘keep things moving’ and continue projects that he saw during his former mayoral term.

Cllr Dawe said: "I’m very pleased to be back as mayor and grateful for the support of my fellow councillors. There’s still a lot to do, especially with the skatepark redevelopment, and I’m keen to keep things moving and see it through."

While new to the role, Cllr Herbert-Coulson has become a well-known figure during her time on the council, working on a number of committees to support work and projects throughout the town.

Speaking about her election, Cllr Herbert-Coulson added: "I’m pleased to be taking on this role and supporting the mayor in representing Bude-Stratton. I’m committed to listening to our community and playing an active part in the council’s work over the coming year."

The changes mean that Cllr Steven Haynes and Cllr Ethan Hanna step down from their roles, having served for the duration of the last term.

A spokesperson from Bude-Stratton Town Council added: “Bude-Stratton Town Council would also like to thank outgoing mayor Cllr Steve Haynes and deputy mayor Cllr Ethan Hanna for their time, commitment and service over the past year.”