THE new Mayor of Darlington is preparing to begin her civic duties after taking up the chains of office.

Councillor Stella Robson has been named as the town's new civic leader, taking over from Roderick Francis.

She was first elected to the council in 1972, but had a break in service from 1979 to 1995.

Coun Robson returned as mayoress in 1995/96 and has been chairman of the environment scrutiny committee, as well as a member of the rights of way panel, transport and town centre forums.

Her charities for the year are Darlington Family Help, Darlington Association on Disability and Darlington Festival for Performing Arts.