WESTBURY Town Council’s clerk of six years is retiring at the end of March.

Keith Harvey, who was appointed as clerk in February 2010, will hand the reins over to Deborah Urch, who will now be responsible for the operation and management of the town council.

Mr Harvey said: “It has been a privilege to be the town clerk in my home town for the past six years.

“I will miss the day to day involvement dealing with queries, working in partnership with local organisations and businesses, working on various projects and late night meetings.

“A great deal has happened in those six years and I hope local residents will see the town council has progressed in its thinking and forward planning. I feel that I, with the support of the town councillors, have laid good foundations for the new town clerk.

“I would like to say a big thank you to the staff, councillors and fellow Clerks around the county for their support and I would like to wish Deborah the very best wishes for the future.”

Mrs Urch, who has previously held several strategic management roles at Somerset County Council, said she is looking forward to the challenge.

She said: “I am very excited and honoured to be working with the town council in Westbury. I will be supporting the Councillors to do the best for the community and I will take the time to engage personally with the town.

“I have a keen interest in health and fitness, and regularly take part in fundraising events, most recently a cycle challenge to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

“People can expect to see me on my bike cycling through the town – providing the weather is nice, of course.

“I wish Keith a happy and long retirement and I hope to be able to bring my experience and expertise to the town council.”