ASHBURTON'S new mayor is Cllr Donald Distin.

The former deputy mayor was the unanimous choice at the town council meeting on Tuesday.

'I must be one of the youngest ones ever,' the 46-year old told the Advertiser.

Among the challenges the council faces this year is the opportunity to take over assets currently owned by Teignbridge Council, possibly including the car park, recreation ground and swimming pool.

'It could be quite exciting to get them back but we will have to look at the financial implications. It's got to be sound so we don't lose out and burden the tax-payer,' he said.

Cllr Distin is an electrician at Buckfast Spinning Mill, where he has worked for 25 years.

He has also been a retained fireman at Ashburton for 20 years.

'I'm picking up my long service and good conduct medal from Taunton Cricket Ground next month. It is a special year,' he said.

Ashburton's new deputy mayor is Cllr Elaine Baker.

The chairmanships of two of the three committees changed hands. Cllr Michael Posner is the new finance committee chairman and outgoing mayor Cllr Peter Brewer has taken over as chairman of general purposes.

Cllr Tony Pugh remains chairman of planning.

Former finance chairman Cllr Jonathan Richards lost his seat in the May elections.

Cllr Posner paid tribute to the contribution he had made over the past 14 years.