AN opposition leader has entered the race to become a borough's mayor.

Lewisham Liberal Democrat leader Councillor Chris Maines has been announced as the party's candidate for the forthcoming elections.

Cllr Maines who came second to current mayor Sir Steve Bullock in 2006, is the former leader of Bromley Council.

He said he wanted to change the directly-elected mayoral system upon election by devolving power to local communities.

Cllr Maines said: “The mayoral system gives too much power to one person but I need to win under the current rules to change it.”

He has also pledged to freeze Council Tax for two years, strengthen local police teams and their involvement with young people, and double the rate of recycling.

The full details of the Liberal Democrat manifesto and their 54 candidates will be announced when the election begins.