DAVID Newell has become the youngest ever Mayor of Sedgefield Borough Council.
Councillor Newell, 39, a social worker with Durham County Council, replaces the outgoing Andy Gray.
He has picked the Pioneering Care Partnership at Newton Aycliffe and St Dunstan's as his two chosen charities for the coming year.
St Dunstan's is a charity that cares for armed services personnel blinded or injured in active service.
Two years ago, Coun Newell presented a cheque for £1,842 to St Dunstan's after spending a week blindfolded to experience being without sight.
He said: "The week I spent blindfolded left a lasting impression with me. It was a dreadful time in that I felt lonely, depressed, couldn't communicate, suffered from panic attacks and could not manage even the most simple things such as eating."
Ferryhill born and bred, he said: "It is a great honour to be chosen as mayor and I can promise I will do my best to live up to the expectations of the people of Sedgefield borough."
Councillor Linda Byrne of Sedgefield was elected as deputy mayor.
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