THE new Mayor of Darlington took office last night, at a ceremony in the town hall.
Councillor Roderick Francis, 67, who is the town's first black mayor, takes over from Councillor Ron Lewis.
Coun Francis, who has represented the Eastbourne South ward for the past 17 years, last night took possession of the ceremonial robe and chains as members of the council watched.
Coun Francis was born in Trinidad and came to England in 1955, choosing to settle in Darlington the following year. He and his wife, Marjorie, have two children.
He has worked for British Rail, the Paton and Baldwin factory, Durham County Council, Torrington Engineering and Heathfield Primary School.
Coun Francis has served his local community in many ways, including as chairman of Firthmoor Community Association and a member of the Firthmoor Partnership board. He said he would like the themes of his time in office to be "partnership and regeneration".
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