A COUNCIL has agreed in principle to split the role of mayor and chairman, but only if the money for a new chain does not come from the public purse.

At Princes Risborough Town Council at the moment one councillor takes on the role of both the mayor and chairman, but many thought this was too much work for one person.

There was also concerns the dual role was deterring people from putting themselves forward for the job.

Current mayor, Alan Turner, and Cllr Will Streule met as part of a working group to discuss the options and decided the role should be split.

A new chain will be needed for the mayor to wear to public events, but this could cost in the region of £2,500 to £3,000.

It was therefore decided external funding should be sought to meet the cost of this.