BEWDLEY’S new Mayor is getting into the swing of his busy role, having already welcomed a royal visitor to the town.

John Latham kicked off his civic duties by greeting the Duke of Gloucester at West Midland Safari Park. He has since met with Bewdley’s round table and represented the town at Evesham’s Mayor-making ceremony. Next on the agenda is seeing the Olympic torch travel through the town.

“I’ve been very busy,” said the Independent Community and Health Concern councillor. “I just want to make sure that the interests of Bewdley are best served.”

The 67-year-old bus driver for First, has served Wribbenhall ward on Bewdley Town Council for three years.

He said he was looking forward to raising money for his chosen charities, MacMillan Nurses, Bewdley Youth Cafe and Bewdley Citizens Advice Bureau.

Mr Latham will be joined by his consort and partner, Wilf Talbot, 70. The pair had their civil partnership at Kidderminster Registry Office five years ago. They have recently adopted a one-year-old Corgie Cross named Annie, from Forest Dog Rescue, as a friend to their whippet Bertie. “I am passionately fond of animals,” said Mr Latham, who is originally from Bredbury. He listed cryptic cross words and travelling in his touring caravan as some of his other interests