IT is all change at Bexley Council, following the annual meeting and mayor making.

The borough's new first citizen is Labour councillor Denis Daniels, who joined the council in last year's elections and represents Colyers ward. His wife, Donna, will be the first American mayoress of Bexley.

Deputy mayor is Councillor Harbans Singh Buttar who represents Thamesmead East ward. His wife Savinder Kaur Buttar will be deputy mayoress.

There were changes too, for Bexley's ruling Cabinet. Bel-vedere councillor Daniel Francis, 26, has taken on the transport portfolio, replacing Councillor John Shepheard who will lead a new scrutiny committee on cultural issues.

The Cabinet is also reducing in size from 10 members to nine as Councillor Mike French returns to full-time work.

Ian Clement, 38, councillor for Christchurch ward, takes over from Councillor Len Newton as Tory group leader.

May 21, 2003 16:30