THOSE famous golden chains were passed along on Monday evening, when Cllr Robert Inwood succeeded Cllr Martin Beaver as town mayor of Royston.

Cllr Inwood, of Thackeray Close, has been on the town council for five years and is also a district councillor, and has lived in Royston for around 40 years.

At the town council meeting on Monday he gave an emotional speech on what it means to him to become mayor, as well as congratulating Cllr Beaver on his tenure.

“I love this town. It means so much to me and I want to serve it as best I can,” said the 43-year-old. “I’m immensely proud to take over from Martin as mayor. He has raised the position of mayor to a great level and has worked tirelessly and with boundless energy and enthusiasm.

“Everyone speaks on how genuine he is and how loveable and approachable he is, and I hope I can do just the same.”

Cllr Inwood, who works in care for the NHS, also outlined his aims for the year, as well as his mayor’s charity.

“Throughout the year I aim to engage the young, inspire them to have a can-do attitude and to stretch their abilities,” he said.

“As we all know next year is the Olympics, so what a fantastic year to try to inspire. I want to help our young be aware of the support and opportunities available to them.

“With this in mind, I have selected the Open House Project as one of my mayor’s charities. It is run purely by volunteers and supports young people between the ages of 12 and 18. I am delighted to help in this way.”

Cllr Inwood also confirmed the Royston branch of the Royal British Legion as his other charity, following on from Cllr Beaver.

Meanwhile, Cllr Beaver spoke of his “utterly amazing” time in office as mayor before handing over the chains.

“May I thank everyone in Royston for making my time as mayor utterly amazing.

“I have attended some truly fantastic events both here in Royston and representing the town further afield.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to be a part of a town which continues to offer a plethora of events and supports so many charitable organisations.

“I must thank my wife Caroline, my employers Tesco, my deputy mayor Cllr Inwood and the Royston Town Council staff.”

Cllr Beaver has recorded his charitable earnings for the year at just under �7,000, with more money yet to come in.

Cllr Lindsay Davidson will take over from Cllr Inwood as deputy mayor.