Merton’s new mayor has donned the ceremonial chains 30 years after he served as deputy mayor.

Councillor David Williams was sworn in at a ceremony on Wednesday, May 16, taking over from Coun Gilli Lewis-Lavender who raised more than £70,000 during her time as the borough’s first citizen. During his mayoralty Coun Williams, who represents Hillside ward, hopes to raise £40,000 for his chosen charity, The Wimbledon Guild, to help them buy a new disabled access mini bus.

He has also announced plans to set up a trust fund to help other charities in the borough throughout this time as mayor and beyond.

Coun Williams was first elected to council in 1974 at the age of 22.

He served as deputy mayor between 1981 and 1982 and as leader of the council from 2006 to 2010.

He said: "It will be a particular honour to serve as Mayor during this exciting time, 30 years after I first served as Deputy Mayor.

"Since starting at Hatfield Primary, I’ve been proud to call Merton my home.

"As well as belonging to St Martin's Church in Lower Morden, I also serve as a magistrate, school governor and member of several community groups.

"I and my councillor colleagues are all deeply grateful for the excellent work the former mayor, Coun Gilli Lewis-Lavender, carried out on behalf of all the borough’s residents." Councillor Lewis-Lavender said she has had a "wonderful year".

She said: "I express my best wishes to Councillor David Williams as Merton’s new Mayor.

"I wish him a mayoralty as enjoyable and successful as mine, and know he will have a rewarding year in our borough."