HE rallied the crowds in High Town and defended a controversial office purchase.

But while some councillors lost their heads - Jonathan Lester rose above them all.

Bromyard’s Town Mayor is to spend another 12 months in office.

He was unanimously voted-in by town councillors at their last meeting, impressed with his efforts during a difficult year.

Coun Lester won many admirers this year for his conduct during the schools review debacle.

He rallied for the area’s schools at Queen Elizabeth Humanities College, before addressing thousands in Hereford in the biggest demonstration since the Poll Tax.

And while there’s been rumblings about the acquisition of the Rowberry Street office complex, he’s happy to stand again.

“It’s been very challenging - in the last year this council has made some very important decisions,” he said.

“But it’s also been very rewarding, and I am proud of what has been achieved.”