by Simon Tulett

Gravesham has welcomed its new mayor, but only after a contested election.

Cllr Bronwen McGarrity will be the borough's representative for the following year following her appointment to the role at a Gravesham council meeting last night (Tuesday).

The 73-year-old, of Milroy Avenue, Northfleet, says she will focus on youth groups and raise cash for small local charities during her year in office.

But the retired teacher and Conservative councillor for Central ward had to fend off a challenge from cllr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, who was nominated for the role by Labour councillors.

Cllr John Burden, the group's leader, said the councillor for Northfleet North ward would be a better representative of the borough's diverse communities.

But cllr McGarrity, who was deputy mayor last year, survived the vote.

She said: "This past year as deputy mayor has given me a great insight into the role of mayor and the opportunity to meet all kinds of people from many walks of life. I'm very proud and I will do my very best to represent this great town and borough."

She takes over from last year's mayor, cllr Kenneth Jones.