The new Mayor of Brighton and Hove has been sworn in. Councillor David Smith, a longserving Conservative from Woodingdean, Brighton, promised to champion sports and culture during his time in office.
Coun Smith also pledged to fight to make Brighton and Hove a top European destination after taking the mayoral robes from his predecessor, Coun Bob Carden.
He has chosen the Martlets Hospice and Whoopsadaisy, a new organisation providing activities for disabled youngsters in Stanmer Park, as the mayoral charities for the coming year.
Councillors from all groups spoke of their respect for Coun Smith and their certainty that he would do the office proud.
Coun Geoffrey Theobald, proposing Coun Smith as mayor, said: "One thing you can be sure of is that David is passionate about and proud of Brighton and Hove."
Coun Brian Fitch said: "He has a record of making things happen."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article