New Bungay mayor Frances Betts takes over Tony Dawes

Frances Betts was unanimously appointed the new Bungay town mayor at the May full town council meeting following a proposal by the outgoing mayor, Tony Dawes.

Mrs Betts has lived in Bungay since 2016, and previously ran a B&B with her husband in Ilketshall St Lawrence.

Frances Betts in her new mayor attire, the traditional robes and historic mayoral chain (Image: Submitted)

Mrs Betts said: “During my year as mayor, I plan to continue the work of Tony Dawes and further develop the town council assets, which include renovating the town hall and making it accessible to all Bungay residents and visitors.

"Furthermore, these improvements will incorporate a redesigned museum and council chamber to be hired out for events.

"Bungay Town Council owns several green spaces, play parks and recreational areas in the town and these will be improved and updated within the remit of the Neighbourhood Development Plan.

"I am particularly interested in making the centre of Bungay a more attractive place for both residents and visiting tourists.”

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Lucy Walker, Linda Bailey, Martha Coleman and Frances Betts at the lighting of the Queen's Jubilee beacon in Bungay (Image: Martha Coleman)

During the Covid pandemic, Frances became involved with the town council, co-ordinating the making of 1,500 face masks for the vulnerable and elderly in Bungay.

She was also one of the first volunteers assisting Bungay Emergency Community Support, collecting and delivering shopping and prescriptions to people self-isolating during the lockdowns.

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Also at the meeting, councillor Jordan Hindes was unanimously voted deputy mayor for the year ahead.

Mr Dawes thanked Mrs Betts for her role as deputy mayor and her support throughout the last year when national events were centre stage.

He also wished Mrs Betts a successful year as mayor and said she had his full support.

Councillor Frances Betts, was deputy mayor of Bungay for 2022/23 and now the new mayor for 2023/24 (Image: Newsquest)