AN official ceremony saw the handover of the mayoral chains in a town, with the promise of a successful year of celebratory events and activities.

Councillor Mark Wilson was elected as the new mayor of Ulverston at the town's council annual general meeting on Monday night.

Cllr Wilson, who also represents the town on South Lakeland District Council and Cumbria County Council, will be the civic lead for the Furness town over the next 12 months, representing its people at various services and engagements.

He replaces the outgoing mayor, Councillor Bharath Rajan, who received a rapturous applause from members of Ulverston Town Council at the Coronation Hall.

Speaking after being presented with the mayoral chains, Cllr Wilson said he was looking forward to the town's busy events calendar and meeting people.

He said: "I look forward to the International Music Festival. We are looking forward to the food festival, Another Fine Fest, the carnival and many of us will be thinking of the 100-year anniversary of the Battle of the Somme."

One of Cllr Wilson's first speeches was to congratulate 17-year-old Jess Gillam who finished runner-up in the BBC Young Musician 2016 on Sunday, calling her an excellent "ambassador" for the town.

Cllr Paul Smith, also a Labour member, was elected as the deputy mayor of Ulverston for the year.

Tributes were made to Cllr Rajan's stewardship over the last year.

Cllr Colin Pickthall lead the praise from the Labour bench. He said: "You have had a terrific year and a brave year.

"You have spread a good image of our town."

Cllr James Airey, Conservative member for the West ward, added: "You have travelled far and wide, with always a smile on your face."

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Rajan said he had thoroughly enjoyed his year in office.

He said: "You have all been really supportive and have been a real pleasure to work throughout this year since I was elected mayor last year.

"It has been very easy going mainly because of the help I have received from all people who I'm associated with, not only just in this town, but in all the associated towns and cities of the county.

"I'm very, very grateful for all the help.

"We have established a clear identity for ourselves and I hope that this continues."