A popular coastal town has elected its mayor for the next year.

Southwold Town Council held its election for a mayor elect after their town council meeting last week.

Elizabeth Ann Betts, who is known as Ann, was voted in to take over from current mayor Simon Tobin.

Miss Betts, 72, was mayor of the town nine years ago, and has been part of the council for 16 years.

She said on being voted in: 'It came as quite a shock. I was quite surprised.

'It's an honour to be asked to do it for a second time. I'm excited. It's changed an awful lot since the last time I was mayor.'

Miss Betts, who was born and bred in Southwold, has chose her mayor's charities as well, the Sole Bay Care Fund, and the Alfred Corry museum.

She said: 'This has always been home.

'I'll get stuck into anything I feel strongly about. If anything crops up I'll get my hands dirty.

'I'd like to say thanks very much to Simon for his help and I think he's done a very good job as mayor.'

When asked about the new CCTV which will be installed in the town around the time that Miss Betts takes up office, she said: 'I personally think it would be a good idea. I'm all in favour of it.

'I hope it helps the police catch these thieves quicker.'

Mr Tobin said: 'I'm absolutely delighted that Ann has been voted for as the future town mayor of Southwold.

'She's an excellent councillor who has served for many years and I know she will have an excellent year to come.

'It's been an honour to serve as a town mayor of Southwold.

'When you look into the history how important it is to work with other councillors to preserve the history of Southwold while taking it forward, without spoiling this incredible town is a skill.'

Mr Tobin said he will remain on the council and will 'support Ann 100% as vice mayor'.

Mr Tobin will hand over the mayoral chains to Miss Betts on May 12.