A new mayor has been announced for Bromley as financial challenges are said to be continuing in the borough.

Councillor Julian Benington, of the Biggin Hill ward, was appointed the year-long position yesterday (June 4) at the council’s annual meeting.

The Conservative talked about his pride at being elected, and brought in Bickley councillor Kate Lymer as his deputy.

He said: “It is an immense privilege to have been appointed as the Mayor of the London Borough of Bromley. 

“I am very proud of our borough and it is an honour to represent it during my mayoral year. 

“I am looking forward to meeting as many people as possible during this time and supporting the many wonderful local charities, community groups and organisations in the work they do for the good of Bromley. “

Councillor Stephen Carr, who remains the authority’s leader, congratulated the new mayor and appointed six other Conservative members to Bromley’s executive – the key decision-making body.

He also mentioned a “significant ongoing financial challenge”, but added it would continue to be met by a “no gimmicks approach”.

Cllr Carr also highlighted ongoing plans for the borough, including multimillion-pound improvements to Beckenham, a new library in Penge, and art facilities for Orpington and Biggin Hill.

World War One’s 100th anniversary will also be marked, with a series of events and exhibitions planned to commemorate Bromley’s contribution.

The allocated portfolio responsibilities for 2014-15 are:

Councillor Stephen Carr – Leader of the Council
Councillor Colin Smith – Deputy Leader & Environment
Councillor Robert Evans – Care Services
Councillor Stephen Wells – Education 
Councillor Tim Stevens – Public Protection & Safety
Councillor Peter Morgan – Renewal & Recreation
Councillor Graham Arthur – Resources

Councillor Peter Fortune meanwhile has been appointed as chairman of Bromley’s Health and Wellbeing Board.

A full list of honours, and allocations to boards and committees is available here.