THE mayor-elect for Newport will dedicate his year in office in memory of his grandson, who was killed in a late night collision last month.

Conservative Cllr William Routley is set to take over as mayor from the incumbent, Cllr Malcolm Linton, next week.

But a unforeseeable tragedy last month did result in him questioning whether he would take up the title.

A pedestrian was taken to the Royal Gwent Hospital

after an incident - which occurred around 11.50pm on Saturday, April 20 - on Chepstow Road but later died.

The pedestrian was Cllr Routley's 21-year-old grandson Jordan.

"The death of my 21-year-old grandson in very tragic circumstances did make me think whether I could do it," he said.

"It would have been far easier for me to defer for a 12 month.

"In fact, I did consider deferring. But it was my family who encouraged me to go forward.

He added: "I have now decided that I will dedicate my year as mayor in memory of Jordan. I will also make sure there is a photo of Jordan in the office."

Cllr Routley, who represents the Langstone ward on Newport City Council, also described the moment he discovered he would become the city's next mayor as "humbling".

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"I will never forget that day," he said. "I felt humbled.

"I aim to make Newport a vibrant city. As mayor I will be raising Newport's profile by going to as many events as I can. I want to make a difference."

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The politician revealed that his chosen charity will be the David Bomber Pearce Legacy.

He said: "David and I were good friends. He always wanted to support Newport in whatever way he could.

"That is why I will support this charity during my time as mayor."

Jordan Routley's funeral will be taking place today at St John’s Church, Maindee.