Douglas mayor hopes to 'increase footfall' in city

Steven Crellin has been selected as mayor for Douglas for the coming year

The new mayor of the Manx capital is hoping to work with businesses to "increase footfall" in the city centre.

Steven Crellin, who was unanimously elected and will serve in the role for a year, was sworn in at a ceremony on Wednesday.

He takes over from Natalie Byron-Teare, who held the position for two years. She declared Mr Crellin would serve the residents with "great determination and passion".

Accepting the role, Mr Crellin said: "I am truly honoured to serve, and I will do so with pride, determination and an unwavering commitment to making Douglas an even better place to live, work, and thrive."

Steven Crellin has selected his three chosen charities for the coming year

The new mayor said he was "honoured and humbled" to have be given the role, and spoke of an "abiding optimism", urging council and community to "shape a future" that was "inclusive, vibrant and full of opportunity".

Crellin, who had previously held the position of deputy mayor, described that experience as "invaluable", allowing him an "overview of how everything is put together, and how events are organised".

He said his theme, as mayor, was community and business, adding: "I can't wait to get going".

The mayor has selected three chosen charities for the coming year: Hospice Isle of Man, Riding for the Disabled and Dot's Dream Foundation.

Councillor Peter Washington was elected to serve as his deputy.

It follows last week's appointment of Devon Watson as council leader for Douglas.