A COMMUNITY leader today warned that the resort will face challenges over the next year, as he prepares to take over as mayor.

Mike Deacon, who represents Felixstowe North, is set to be elected as the mayor of Felixstowe for the third time tonight, taking over from Doreen Savage.

Mr Deacon will be the town’s first citizen during the Olympics and the Diamond Jubilee. He said he is looking forward to the next 12 months.

“My wife Annie and I hope to be good ambassadors to the town and want to meet as many people as possible who give up their time as volunteers to the many organisations that make Felixstowe special,” he said.

The resort has faced a number of challenges over the last year with shops closing and the threat of the town’s theatre, The Spa Pavilion, closing.

And with further budget cuts expected to hit the UK in the future, Mr Deacon warned that there were still challenges ahead for the community.

He has called on people in the community to join together when the going gets tough.

“During the next year, local government will face huge challenges,” he said.

“Felixstowe will not be exempt. As mayor I will use my best endeavours to ensure that the impact on our town, as a resort and pleasant place to live, will be kept to a minimum.

“Given suitable resources, I would like to see Felixstowe in far greater control of its own destiny.”

Mr Deacon has chosen the Level Two youth project and the Felixstowe Area Community Transport Scheme (FACTS) as his charities for his year in office.