Uppingham's new mayor Stephen Rozak will focus on the town's recovery from the impact of coronavirus during his year in office

A new mayor of Uppingham has been elected to oversee the town’s coronavirus recovery.

Stephen Rozak has taken the hot seat at the start of his fifth year on Uppingham Town Council.

The main focus for his year in office will be assessing the impact of coronavirus and looking at ways to help the town get back on its feet.

Coun Rozak was appointed at a virtual council meeting on Wednesday last week.

He said: “It’s a great honour to become mayor of the town of Uppingham.

“You can’t choose the time to be elected, you just have to face the issues as they happen.

“As a community we are working through the Covid-19 pandemic and people are starting to get out to see friends and relatives more, and shops and pubs are starting to open up again.

“It is important to not forget that we still need to be careful as Covid-19 has not gone away.

“I said in my opening speech that it is a year of consolidation and review. We need to consolidate and review the impact on our finances and work with our community as Covid has hit them hard.”

The town council is also working on other projects including the new play equipment at Tod’s Piece, which should be ready next month.

There are also plans to refurbish the public toilets and update the neighbourhood plan.

Coun Rozak added: “I am proud of our team in Uppingham, which has a broad skill base of knowledge across a wide range of areas and I look forward to working with them to deliver on some of the exciting ideas that we are generating.”

Coun Rozak has been part of the Uppingham community for 25 years.

He retired from his role within an international IT company 10 years ago and joined Uppingham Town Council four year ago.

He has served on the finance and amenities committees.

Away from the council, Coun Rozak has an eye for adventure.

This week he should have been canoeing down the Amazon before climbing Machu Picchu but the trip has been postponed until next year.

He also enjoys golf, walking and spending time with his grandchildren. He is also a volunteer for the Samaritans.

Coun Rozak takes over from the outgoing mayor David Casewell, whose aims were to improve access to the town hall, upgrade Tod’s Piece and work on the neighbourhood plan.

Councillor Liz Clarke is the new deputy mayor.