UPTON’S new mayor Paul Thomas has spoken about his hopes and plans for his term in office.

Councillor Thomas, who was elected to succeed Tim Perry last week, believes the ongoing work to bring a flood defence scheme to the town is the biggest project currently in the pipeline.

“The flood barriers could turn out to be the best tourist attraction Upton has had for a long time,” he said.

Coun Thomas hopes to work with Worcestershire County Council to get Upton’s bridge painted and pavements improved, and Malvern Hills District Council to have the Hanley Road car park resurfaced and ensure the Tourist Information Centre is open as much as possible.

He would also like to introduce a Saturday morning surgery where residents can meet with councillors to discuss any queries, see Memorial Hall painted inside and out and to have the town flag pole outside the hall replaced.

Coun Thomas also wants to work closely with the Upton Town Partnership and Upton Tourism and Trade Association to support businesses and drive tourism in the town.

One of Coun Thomas’ first acts in office was to elect his mayoral charities for the coming year.

He will be supporting St Richard’s Hospice and the Acorns Children’s Hospice, and has invited Marilyn Peachey, from St Richard’s, and Sophie James, from Acorns, to attend the next Upton Town Council meeting on Tuesday, May 26 and give short presentations on their charities’ work.