Cllr Ward, who was previously deputy mayor and takes over the mantle of mayor from Cllr Philip Sanders, has lived in the town for six years.
He said he looked forward to the coming year with excitement but also with anxiety and trepidation as his length of time as a councillor was quite small compared to some other members of the town council.
‘During my career I have moved around a lot — Bristol, Plymouth, Norwich and Cambridge and I was born in Birmingham,’ he said. ‘I do not believe I have ever felt I have put down roots until we came to Tavistock. In six years my wife and I have fallen in love with this town. We have found it warm and welcoming and become involved in a number of different activities. I am intrigued by how various groups overlap and how quickly you make friends here.
‘I look forward to doing my best for the town over the coming year and with my fellow councillors support I hope to achieve that.’
Outgoing mayor Philip Sanders paid tribute to assistant town clerk Jan Smallacombe, his consort for the year, who had been a ’tower of strength’ throughout his duties.
Mr Sanders was praised by Cllr Anne Johnson for concentrating 100% on Tavistock during his mayoral year despite wearing many hats including being leader of West Devon Borough Council. She said his skill in debate and talent in chairing meetings had been a great asset especially when meetings were in danger of going on for a very long time.
Cllr Johnson was chosen as deputy mayor for the coming year for her ‘loyal and respectful’ representation of the council for many years and her skill and expertise in council business. She said she felt privileged to be chosen as deputy mayor, which would be her third time representing the town in this capacity.