ILMINSTER Town Council has opted for one of the town's "new generation" as Rose Neave was elected as mayor on Tuesday.

Cllr Neave, who was elected onto the council last year and was re-elected in the General Election, edged out Val Keitch to take the chain and lead the new-look council.

The new mayor pledged to unite the council for the good of the town, amid a perceived split between the eight members who stood for election under the Voice For Ilminster banner and the remaining seven who did not.

The nominations opened with Cllr Roger Swann putting Cllr Keitch forward for the role, describing her as a popular choice given her high standing in the recent town election polls.

Cllr Stuart Shepherd nominated Ms Neave, describing her as having the right qualities to represent the town, having been well-versed in the workings of the council.

Each nominee was seconded and granted the opportunity to address the council on why they believed they would be best for the role.

Cllr Keitch pledged to represent the "whole of the town" and strive to take into account a range of views when making decisions, while Cllr Neave pointed towards her strong legal and debating background.

"I am part of the new generation," she added. "I am outgoing, I try to speak for the whole town going forwards and I want to make this council a force for good."

Each Voice For Ilminster councillor backed Cllr Neave, giving an eight-seven vote in her favour.

Once signed in as mayor, she said: "I appreciate that vote may make people feel the council is split in half. My ambition is to draw this council together because it is important we work together and I hope Cllr Keitch will help me do the job to the best of my ability."

Val Keitch was put forward once more to take on the role of deputy mayor, while Tony Walker was nominated by Don Kinder.

The vote was split down the middle seven-seven, leaving the new Mayor with the casting vote for Cllr Walker, citing a "fresh set of ways moving forward."

Cllr Shepherd was duly elected as the chairman of the Open Spaces committee, while Cllr Andrew Shearman was voted in to continue his role at the head of the Planning, Highways and Transport committee.