A FORMER professional footballer is Newport's new mayor. Councillor Ron Morris, who represents Beechwood ward, was appointed to the leading civic post in a ceremony at the Civic Centre.

Councillor Morris signed with Crystal Palace in 1946 and, at the age of 16, became the youngest player ever to play for the first team.

He went on to play for Gillingham and later was with Gravesend and North Fleet in the Southern League.

After his football career came to an end, he managed a general store/newsagents. On his retirement from business in 1981 he stood for election, and since then has represented Beechwood.

He is still a keen supporter of football. He is president of Eveswell Junior FC and a life member of Liswerry Stars FC.

Councillor Morris is married to Peggy, who will be mayoress for the coming year, and they have a son, Gareth.

At his inauguration, Councillor Morris paid tribute to the "wonderful job" done by outgoing mayor Councillor Graham Dally and mayoress Ottaleen Dally.

He has chosen the Gwent Cardiac Rehabilitation Fund for his mayoral charity. Councillor Glyn Jarvis is the new deputy mayor and his wife, Glenys, will be deputy mayoress.