A FORMER Target newspaper reporter will be the next mayor of Louth.

Councillor Jill Makinson-Sanders was chosen as mayor-elect ahead of three other candidates after a vote by the town council's mayoral selection group, which was ratified at this week's town council meeting.

Mrs Makinson- Sanders, who will be wearing the mayoral robes for the first time, has served on the town council since 2005, representing the St Mary's ward.

She is also an East Lindsey District councillor, a member of the Louth Town Partnership and trustee of Hubbards Hills.

Current mayor Brian Burnett, who chaired the mayoral selection group, said: "Jill has been a councillor for several years. She works very hard for the town and has a lot of input into the town council and its proceedings.

"I am sure she will do a very good job as mayor and will put all she has got into the role."

Mrs Makinson- Sanders will officially take on the role at the annual town council meeting on Friday, May 18.