Liberal Democrat Brian Smith took over as mayor of Southend yesterday at the Civic Centre.
Mr Smith replaces Gwen Horrigan as mayor. He has been a member of the council for 14 years, and is the owner of the Ace of Cards greetings card shop in Shoebury.
Mr Smith’s appointment was proposed by Liberal Democrat group leader Graham Longley, who praised Mr Smith’s previous work as a councillor for the Blenheim ward.
The new mayor has chosen the Sycamore Fund, which helps young carers of primary school age, as hi charity for the year.
The new deputy mayor is Ann Holland, Conservative councillor in Southchurch.
