The man who began his political career as the first non-white member of Brighton Council has been re-elected president of the Liberal Democrats.

Lord Navnit Dholakia, who lives at Coldwaltham, near Pulborough, has been re-elected unopposed and will now serve a second two-year term.

When elected in September 2000, Tanzanian-born Lord Dholakia was the first ethnic minority president of a British political party.

Party leader Charles Kennedy said: "Navnit Dholakia has been an outstanding President of the Liberal Democrats.

"He is highly respected well beyond the confines of the party as evinced by his recent recognition as Asian of the Year.

"His sound advice, experience and expertise are invaluable."

Lord Dholakia said: "It is a great honour to be re-elected at a time when prospects are so bright.

"I am convinced that over the next two years we will attract more and more support as increasing numbers of people recognise that we are the effective opposition to the Government."

Lord Dholakia was elected to the old Brighton Council in 1962 and served for three years before forging a career helping foster good race relations in Britain, working for the Commission for Racial Equality and the Police Complaints Authority.

He is also the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex, a position he has held since June 1999.