GRAVESHAM has a new mayor in the shape of retired electrician Councillor Derek Sales.

Cllr Sales, 71, was elected the new Mayor of Gravesham at the borough’s annual council meeting on May 14.

The Central ward Labour councillor takes over from Cllr Lyn Milner who came to the end of her Jubilee and Olympics year as mayor.

The mayor’s chosen charities for this year are Cancer Research UK and House of Mercy: a Gravesend hostel for young homeless people.

Cllr Sales worked for 40 years as an electrician and electrical fitter, retiring seven years ago, and his wife Pam will be mayoress.

Labour representative Cllr John Caller of Westcourt ward was elected Deputy Mayor.

Cllr Sales said: "It’s an honour to serve as mayor of this vibrant diverse borough and all of its communities."