Llandrindod Wells has a new mayor with a mental health message: Councillor Steve Deeks-D’Silva.

He was elected at Llandrindod Wells Town Council’s annual meeting, which took place on Tuesday, April 21, having previously been the deputy mayor.

He said: “It was a privilege and an honour, even though it was only me who put my name forward. I’m really proud.”

Cllr Deeks-D’Silva told the County Times that his personal focus will be on mental health.

He plans to promote and work alongside Mid Powys Mind, Samaritans, dementia groups and Llandrindod Wellness.

Cllr Deeks-D’Silva says he knows how difficult mental health problems can make life; having worked with and known people who have suffered with various disorders.

“Mental health still seems to carry a stigma around it when it shouldn’t. I want to help people to move away from that and make people realise that there needs to be a balance between physical and mental health.”

Cllr Deeks-D’Silva says that being the chair of the town council is “just as important” to him as being mayor.

“I’m proud to be part of Llandrindod Wells Town Council, whose members are ready to work as a team and utilise their range of skills,” he said.

“We have 13 councillors, which will rise to the full 15 next month.

“I hope that my year in chair will allow all members to be heard and their views respected.”

Cllr Deeks-D’Silva moved to Llandrindod Wells around 13 years ago, and is originally from Manchester.

“The town is just fantastic. The people are friendly. It may be something of a quirky Victorian town but it’s probably the best place to live.”

The mayor also praised the amount of events and activities going on in the town, such as the Victorian Festival, and praised the town’s many volunteers.

“We have fantastic volunteers. Volunteers are the backbone of the country. This country would grind to a halt without our volunteers,” he said.

“What Llandrindod does today the world does tomorrow.”

If you are an organisation and would like the invite the mayor to attend an event, contact the clerk via the town council’s website.