I am very proud to have been elected as our latest Labour Mayor of Worcester and want to thank the many who have sent good wishes.

I want to do this job differently to some of my predecessors. Its not about me but about what I can, with help, achieve for others. My theme for the year is “No Community Left Behind” and I will be on the side of the less advantaged.

I have cancelled the civic banquet because I cannot justify spending your taxes to feed the great and good. Instead, I hope to arrange events for those who are often ignored.

My charities are the Midlands Air Ambulance and YHA Breaks for Kids with Worcester Action For Children (AfC). AfC provides Early Years services in the city for the County Council and they have agreed to help identify local kids from poor families who would benefit from an action-packed short break staying at youth hostels. I hope to raise money to send as many children as possible.

A number of fund-raising activities will be planned during the year and I hope you will feel able to support some of them.

If you know of any events planned in the city, where a mayoral visit might help, please get the organisers to request one, especially if its in a deprived area. Such requests need to be submitted to Gill Preece at the Civic Office, Guildhall – 01905 722001 or civicoffice@worcester.gov.uk

Thanks to all of you for your support.