AFTER 12 years serving as a town councillor, Robert Kyle has been elected the mayor of Peterlee.

Councillor Kyle was presented with his chain of office at Peterlee Town Council's annual meeting this week.

Accepting the post, Coun Kyle, who represents the Acre Rigg Ward, said he was "extremely proud'' to take on the position of mayor and would continue to ensure that the best interests of the people of Peterlee were served.

Also receiving her chain of office was Coun Kyle's Mayoress for the coming year, Carol O'Conner.

At the ceremony, the leader of the council, Bill Jeffrey, congratulated Coun Kyle and paid tribute to retiring Mayor and Mayoress Councillor Ronald and Elizabeth Curtis.

"During their year of office, the retiring mayor and mayoress have raised a commendable £15,000 for local charities,'' he said.