Bangor’s new mayor has made history by becoming not only the youngest ever in Wales but also the world’s first non-binary holder of the post.

Owen Hurcum, who originally moved to Bangor as a student, has secured their place in the history books after being presented with the city’s mayoral chains and robe during a ceremony earlier this week.

Owen, who is originally from the London suburb of Harrow but has lived in Bangor for over five years, was originally elected to the city’s top civic post last year.

But despite serving as the city’s deputy mayor,  the Covid-19 pandemic saw their elevation to the top job delayed by 12 months until the 23 year old was finally presented with the ceremonial robes during this past Monday’s city council meeting.

Owen, having “fallen in love” with the city after less than a week, has dedicated much of their time to the local and wider LGBT+ community, identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns.

Speaking after the ceremony, Owen said that while they had initially feared being “ostracised” by the community after coming out two years ago, it was “beyond humbling” to have beeen awarded the honour.

Having been bombarded with messages of support since the appointment by fellow councillors, Owen added: “I know representation is not just putting on the chain and I’ll be judged by what we do as a team for Bangor during my year in office, but still, I’m glad my election has resonated with so many.”

The city council also voted in Cllr Gwynant Roberts as the new Deputy Mayor, with Cllr Hurcum taking over from Cllr John Wyn Wiliams following his two years in the post.