The new Mayor of Bexley has pledged to raise money for a charity aiming to make counselling accessible for all Bexley residents.

Councillor Sue Gower, now Bexley's 60th mayor, will be championing local charity ‘Counselling Matters Bexley’ during her term as mayor.

Councillor Gower with roots in Bexley since 1984, became the borough's mayor on Wednesday, May 22.

Her husband, Mr Darren Tobin, serves as her Consort.

Councillor Gower moved to Bexley in 1984 and her children and grandchildren were born and raised in Bexley.

Dedicated to public service, she has been a local Justice of the Peace since 2000 and was elected as Councillor for Bexleyheath Ward in 2018.

News Shopper: Councillor Lisa Jane Moore has become Deputy Mayor, with Mr Justin Moore as her consortCouncillor Lisa Jane Moore has become Deputy Mayor, with Mr Justin Moore as her consort (Image: Bexley Council)

Recognised with an MBE for her voluntary service to Bexley’s disabled children and young people in 2009, she was also Deputy Mayor from 2020-21 and worked on housing and community issues as a council Cabinet Member from 2021-2024.

Councillor Sue Gower MBE JP said: "I am deeply honoured to serve as the Mayor of Bexley.

"This community has been my home for decades and I am committed to working tirelessly to support and uplift our residents.

"Together, we can achieve great things for Bexley."

Councillor Lisa Jane Moore, who represents Longlands Ward, will stand as Deputy Mayor alongside the Mayor, with Mr Justin Moore serving as her consort.

Mr Paul Weston from the New Generation Church will be her Chaplain.

As part of her mayoral role, the Councillor will fundraise for her chosen charity, Counselling Matters Bexley.

Counselling Matters Bexley aims to make counselling available to as many residents as possible in the Borough of Bexley and surrounding areas.

The Mayor also plans to support other local charities and good causes throughout her term.