A HEXHAM county councillor has been named as the council’s new civic head.

Councillor Trevor Cessford, who represents the Hexham Central with Acomb ward, said he is “delighted and honoured” at his new role after serving as Deputy Civic Head for the last year.

His chosen charity for his year in office will be ‘Tynedale Hospice at Home’, which provides end of life nursing care, hospital transport and post bereavement support to children, adults and their families.

Tynedale Hospice at Home have 40 members of staff and are supported by 200 volunteers. 

Cllr Cessford, a former mayor and deputy mayor of Hexham, said: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to have been appointed Civic Head. My main role will be attending civic events on behalf of the council and trying to raise funds, and the profile, of my very worthwhile chosen charity, Tynedale Hospice at Home.

“It will be a very busy year but something I will put my all into."

A former firefighter and high school maths teacher, Cllr Cessford is a keen supporter of the armed forces. 

Cllr Cessford will be accompanied on his civic duties by his partner Nicoleta Stefan. 

Cllr Catherine Seymour, who represents the Berwick North ward, will serve as his deputy.