The outgoing Mayor of Kenilworth has thanked fellow councillors for their support as she reflected on a "crazy" year as the town's first citizen.

Cllr Sam Louden-Cooke's time as mayor ended last Thursday (May 18) at Kenilworth Town Council's annual meeting, following 12 months of unveilings, openings and community events.

The last year has also been a busy one for Cllr Louden-Cooke, having got married just weeks after putting on the chains for the first time.

And as she now prepares to move away from Kenilworth, last week's event also saw her time on the council draw to a close.

"How has 12 months passed already - it is crazy how much you can fit into one year," she said to guests at Kenilworth Castle. 

"The royal theme has continued from the jubilee to the reading of the proclamation at the castle and also then the fantastic celebrations for the coronation. 

"One of the highlights of the year for me has been working with the fantastic team at the castle."

Local fundraiser Margaret Kite receiving her birthday present from Cllr Sam Louden-Cooke last November (image supplied)

She added: "The Commonwealth Games and the privilege of all the royal engagements throughout the calendar have been overwhelming and I am still processing a lot of what I have done this year. 

"But I am so proud to have done this in Kenilworth. 

"And I am very proud of what I have done for Compassionate Kenilworth and Warwickshire Pride [mayoral charities]."

The ceremony at Kenilworth Castle last week also saw Cllr Alix Dearing elected as the new mayor, with Cllr Alan Chalmers chosen as her deputy for the coming year.

As well as congratulating the new mayoral team, fellow members were also quick to thank Cllr Louden-Cooke for her work over the past 12 months.

"Each mayor is successful in their own way, bringing their own character, style, intellect and experience to the role. And Sam is no exception to this rule," said Cllr James Kennedy. 

"She followed on from two mayors whose time in office was constrained by Covid restrictions, and she was able to get out and about, meet residents and represent the town in ways that had not been possible during the pandemic.

"Sam, you have done a wonderful job as a councillor and as mayor over the past year."