Former Newtown town councillors have spoken out about their experiences receiving online abuse and harassment while serving their communities.

Newtown's youngest mayor Richard Williams said his time on the town council has "not always been easy".

"As Mayor I’ve been abused and harassed online. I am a person, same as everyone else with feelings and emotions. With six vacant seats to fill, I hope that some of the moaners and keyboard warriors who declare that our town has ‘gone to the dogs’ would like to try their hand at making our town the best place to live, work, visit and play."

Mr Williams has urged "moaners and keyboard warriors" to put their names forward to fill vacant seats on the town council.

Joy Jones said the attacks on social media had contributed to her not putting her name forward to stay on the Town Council.

"I will remain a County Councillor but there is only so much abuse myself and others can cope with and that is why others have left this time. This is a call to all the keyboard warriors who can do better and make the town great .. here's your chance there are 6 empty seats. 🙂

"As for the personal gain and benefits you will make good luck as I'm still waiting for them but if you mean stress, upset, self doubt and low self esteem well you'll gain them.

"I am always so grateful for the kind messages and support from people who are sickened by the nasty social media attacks or appreciate what we do. Kindness costs nothing."

Six councillors have stepped down from Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council. Richard Williams, whose last day as town councillor was Monday, will remain as Mayor until May 23.

He thanked the retiring councillors for their contribution to Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn residents: John Barker, Kevin Morris, Joy Jones, Jackie Molloy-Davies and Rosie Malloy.

Speaking on his penultimate day as a town councillor, Mr Williams said it had been an "incredible five-year experience".

"The Town Council has achieved so much in the last few years and continues to bring inward investment to Newtown."

He added: "Congratulations to those elected at the county level to represent our town - I am sure they will be advocates for our town.

"I would have loved to have stayed longer but due to moving house (not too far away!) I am no longer legally qualified to be a councillor in Newtown."