A Banstead Village councillor and cancer research scientist was elected as Mayor of Reigate and Banstead on Thursday night.

Councillor Dr Lynne Hack, who has published over 60 scientific papers on cancer genetics, took over the reins from outgoing Mayor Councillor Roger Newstead.

Last night Coun Hack told the council: "I am looking forward to a very busy and fulfilling year."

Coun Hack also called on people to help out the community to mark the 150th anniversary of Reigate and Redhill becoming a municipal borough.

She said: "To celebrate our 150 years in existence, I am asking councillors and residents to undertake 150 minutes of volunteering and give something back to our community."

She named her chosen charities as Surrey Crimestoppers and cancer hospital the Royal Marsden, adding: "I look forward to supporting the work of these charities."

Councillor Steve Farrer, who served ten years in the army and moved to the borough in 2003, was elected as Deputy Mayor.

Coun Hack was first elected in 1999 and one of her proudest achievements was restoring the first floor of the town hall on its 100th anniversary.