The outgoing Mayor of Warwick has described his year as the town's first citizen was "a whirlwind and an absolute blast".

Speaking at last night's Warwick Mayor Making ceremony at the castle, Cllr Richard Edgington reflected on his time as the town's youngest ever mayor.

Having taken on the role aged 26, he said it had been "the greatest honour" and one of the most "interesting and heartwarming" experiences of his life.

"I said at my civic dinner that 'you get what out what you put in' doesn't apply to this role and I stand by that again today, as you get out far more than you ever imagined or could hope for," he said.

Adding: "As I have come to the end of my year as mayor I have had more and more people ask me what were the highlights. 

"But I have to say you can't choose one, because you are made to feel so special wherever you go and whatever you do.

"It has been an honour to attend every single event and I will look back on them equally. I have never been made to feel so special in all my life as I have in this past year."

Cllr Edgington was also quick to thank the many community groups, charities and organisations across the town for all they do.

And having received compliments on the local sense of community from visitors to Warwick, he said the credit should all go to local people.

"In Warwick however, the town council is only a small member of the wider groups and individuals that do so much and go above and beyond," he said. 

"I feel honoured in this last year in particular to have been part of and worked with these incredible groups and organisations. 

"I'd like to thank everyone who contributes to the town and makes everything happen - your ongoing service is truly remarkable."

High Praise

Having officially handed over the office of mayor to Cllr Parminder Singh Birdi last night, Cllr Edgington was also thanked by other members of the council for his contribution to Warwick.

His predecessor, Cllr Terry Morris, said he "took to the role like a natural" saying it was clear from his first public speech that Cllr Edgington was "comfortable talking to a room full of people, from the heart".

"Anybody who has had anything to do with Rich will agree, he has brought many qualities to his mayoral year including a level of gravitas and confidence far beyond what our residents expect of this prestigious role regardless of age," Cllr Morris added.

Whilst Cllr Rich Eddy said it had been a delight to "see Richard truly and proudly embrace this position of First Citizen of Warwick".

Adding: "Through his ongoing support of Warwick Chamber of Trade he has welcomed and celebrated the new shops and businesses that have added fresh vibrancy to our town.

"In addition to marking anniversaries of our established shopkeepers and businesses which continue to serve us well.

"Likewise he has served Warwick Court Leet as Lord of the Leet for the past year, and the bailiff has asked me to pass on his utmost respect for his involvement."