BUDE-STRATTON Town Council welcomed a new face to the council last Thursday evening when a casual vacancy was filled via co-option.

The only candidate for the position, Simon Jones, was duly voted onto the council with all councillors present in favour.

Mr Jones has lived in Bude for almost ten years, having resided in various places up until that point. He came to Bude as that was where his parents chose to live and after they died, he decided to stay. He has worked in the retail trade for several years throughout his life, as well as also being in the services for a time.

Mr Jones said Bude is generally a very friendly place to be, and he hoped be able to bring an outsider’s view to the council.

Town mayor Cllr Lea Deely said: “Bude-Stratton Town Council is pleased to welcome Simon Jones onto the council.

“Welcome to the mad house!”