Don't snigger. This Skoda is the Mayor of Worthing's new set of wheels - and he's very pleased with it.

The only clanking noise came from Eric Mardell's chain of office as he took the keys and settled into the driving seat yesterday.

In other years, mayors have been chauffeured around in stretch limousines, Daimlers and Bentleys.

But Mr Mardell shrugged off all the jokes, saying he was thrilled with his shiny new Superb Classic 2.0.

He said: "The car is two litres of purring, air-conditioned comfort.

"It's very quiet and I am thrilled with it. I don't mind the jokes.

"One or two of my colleagues laughed when they heard I was getting a Skoda. But it is really nice, very elegant and comfortable.

"I think it upholds the mayor's status."

The car has been leased to Worthing Borough Council for three years by Clarion Cars, of Tarring.

Sales executive Mike Bridle said: "The mayor was elated with the car. Really chuffed to bits.

"We don't get put off by all the Skoda jokes. The firm has come a long way since it was bought by Volkswagen."

The mayoral car has been a source of controversy in Worthing.

The council was criticised for continuing to use a Daewoo when the car giant announced huge job cuts in the town.

The car was repossessed and the council forced to hire another car when the cash-strapped company withdrew its sponsorship in February.

For all its detractors, the Skoda will hopefully give the mayor a smoother ride.