Councillor Lynn Joyes took over in Ripley, after sitting on the council for only one year.

Cllr Joyes has always lived in Amber Valley. She was educated at Heage and Ripley Mill Hill Schools before obtaining qualifications in management and book keeping.

She is currently a director of the family business providing health and safety and financial services.

Her son Matthew also sits as a councillor on the town council.

Cllr Joyes said: "It's an honour and a privilege that people have elected me as town mayor.

"I was delighted to have served last year as deputy town mayor meeting so many local residents and groups, and look forward to next year.

"I am keen to meet local residents across the town council area and to work with the voluntary groups, charities and other organizations to improve local life"

She replaces Cllr Robert Philips-Forsyth. Ron Ashton will be the deputy mayor.

Meanwhile, Cllr Harry Soar is the new of Heanor and Loscoe Town Council for the third time having already served in 1998/99 and 2002/03.

He takes over from Paul Jones who has held the post for the past two years.

Cllr Soar said: "I'm very pleased and very proud, I like doing the job and I'm pleased that the council has elected me.

"I've been on the council for about 14 years now and you do get to know the people in the town really well."