The newest members of Totnes Town Council are "honoured" to have won residents’ votes in the recent Bridgetown ward election.
Amy Oliver of the Progressive Group, and independent Niall Stopp replace husband and wife duo, Claire and Paul Allford who resigned in July.
With an honours degree in geography and environmental science behind her, Amy says she is well equipped to tackle a number of local issues relating to environmental conservation, renewable energy, urban planning, sustainable economics, social justice and community collaboration.
Niall, a chef at Dartington’s Cott Inn, aims to give the town’s youth a voice on the council, and says he will set up weekly public meetings so residents can share their ideas and opinions with him.
Any said: "I’m exceptionally grateful to all those who took the time to vote, thereby providing me with the opportunity to help us all fulfil a greater potential.
"I’m extremely excited by this new chapter and I fully intend to honour voter’s faith in me.Â
"I’ve reached a stage in my life where I find myself fortunate enough to be the master of my own time, and it’s time to give something back to a town I love, alongside a team of hugely dedicated volunteers who have nurtured an impressively productive, forward-thinking and cohesive town council.
"I would like to begin with a view to making our green spaces more user-friendly and engaging.
"I will also concern myself with the provision of creative opportunities for our younger generation with regard to mitigating against negative lifestyle choices, which sadly, I’ve seen played out with more regularity of late.
"Equally, I think there is a great need for sanctuary, assistance and guidance for those who have fallen through the net in our society.
"More specific projects I have signed up to include The Totnes Community Charter - document built on a shared vision in an inclusive process of community consultation, and which aims to reframe how our community can engage in the
planning process to safeguard our assets and environment.
"And I am pleased to have been invited to help create the upcoming Totnes Festival planned for next August."
Niall said: "I am truly honoured to of been voted in to represent Totnes.
"It is a town I care a lot for and the people who make it.
"Youth and community with be my main focus.
"I hope to bring a voice for the younger generation and get ideas from them of what they want to see happen - creating a youth sub committee is something I would love to achieve.
"There is such a large amount of talent within the town and having a place where young people can express that talent - be it music, art or sport - is important.
"Having a youth club/center as a place where young people can relax, play pool and be young is something I find important.
"I will also look to work and help with all events and public spaces as I want to help create a community feel in the town, and looking after and maintaining what beautiful places we are so lucky to have on our doorstep is important to me."
Niall added: "I really am so proud to represent the town I grew up in and looking forward to giving my all.
"There is no political agenda behind anything, I just want the best for the town."