The Hertsmere mayoral chains have been passed to councillor Martin Worster for the next year.

Cllr Worster, who serves Potters Bar Furzefield ward, takes over the role from councillor Carey Keates and was inaugurated at the annual council meeting on Wednesday.

The new Deputy Mayor, councillor Peter Rutledge, who serves the Bushey St James ward, was also welcomed. He takes over the role from cllr Worster.

Cllr Keates said: "I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my time as Mayor. It has been a pleasure and an honour to work on behalf of Hertsmere residents, and to meet and support many of those small charities, which do so much for so many in our community.

"I’m delighted with the generous response we received and want to thank everyone who contributed towards my two charities, Hertsmere Mencap and Kidney Research UK. Hopefully, thanks to the money raised fewer people will struggle with chronic kidney disease and support for people with learning disabilities will be even stronger in the borough."

Cllr Worster is looking forward to his mayoral term, during which he will be raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society and Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity.

He said: "Both these charities are fantastic causes and I’m already planning a number of exciting activities which will help generate funds and raise awareness. My time as Deputy Mayor has been hugely rewarding and I look forward to the year ahead to continue and expand my civic duties."