Fellow Councillors felt that due to the Coronavirus situation and the fact that Clr. Walters enjoyed his first term of office, that he should continue in the role as Mayor.
In agreement, Clr. Walters accepted the position and duly read and signed the ‘Declaration of Acceptance of Office’ and was sworn in, before then chairing the rest of the virtual Council meeting.
Following the meeting Clr. Walters said: “A huge thank you to all councillors who supported me in nominating myself for another term in office.
“I love representing Narberth both as First Citizen and Mayor. Since being appointed as Mayor I have had the excellent chance to meet so many organisations, groups and volunteers in Narberth and getting to know the real backbone of the High Street through being involved with the Chamber Of Trade meetings and being invited to talk to many groups.
“It goes without saying that we are in some very tough times at present and COVID-19 has really affected our lives with restrictions on families, businesses etc.
“Dates are slowly being released as to when restrictions are being lifted but by no means are we out of the thick of it yet.
“I ask everyone who can to buy and shop local. Support your local corner shop, retailer and newsagent. These guys need your support the most.
“Then when other businesses open such as beauty salons, barbers etc please try and support them too.
“Then eventually those in the hospitality industry - the restaurants, the pubs, the bars etc remember everyone linked to these industries have had it tough too - butchers, caterers, general suppliers.
“Sadly it’s a very vicious chain. But like I have always said and will remain saying - Narberth is a very strong town we will fight for our High Street and beyond and we will overcome this stronger and better than before.
“It goes also without saying a huge thank you to all doctors, NHS staff, chemists, retail workers, miscellaneous key workers and those volunteers who have gone out of their way day in, day out risking their own health to keep the country going and to care for those in need.
“I speak on behalf of the whole of the Town Council when I say we thank each and everyone one of you!” he continued.
Clr. Walters also said that his hat also goes off to all parents and guardians who have been home-schooling their children throughout these times.
“I’m sure it’s been tough having them home not being able to go out, mingle with their friends etc but I would hope it’s brought families closer together.
“On a lighter note on behalf of Narberth Town Council we would like to publicly thank local resident, artist and ‘Rainbow Fairy’ - Diana Brook who has brightened up many windows and businesses in the High Street and spreading the keep safe message.
“We also congratulate her in raising over £5000+ for Leukaemia Research, a charity very close to her heart!
“As we make our way into July, this year is already a bit of an odd year as it seems all our Major events are cancelled until further guidance is released but I look forward to, when it’s safe to do so to, reunite with groups all over Narberth and for us to get together and celebrate our fantastic community and town of Narberth.
“Finally I must acknowledge the sad passing of Clr. Mike Platt. Mike was elected onto the Council a year after I started and I was heavily involved with Mike as a Buff from the RAOB Narberth Castle Lodge, Town Moor.
“Both I and Mike regularly fundraised and got involved. Mike’s passing is a huge loss to the town and to the RAOB.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to Ruth and family at this very sad time.
“I wish the whole of the Narberth Community to please - keep safe and to keep a positive lookout to 2020-21,” he added.