Merton’s new Mayor at 33 is the youngest person ever to wear the chain of office and the only Mayor to have been born in the borough since it was founded in 1965.

Councillor Martin Whelton, who represents Pollards Hill, has been elected twice to Merton Council, once in 2002 and again in 2006.

As Mayor he will represent the borough at formal functions, chair meetings of the full council and, of course, raise funds for his chosen charities the Vine Project and the Wimbledon Guild.

The Vine Project works to eradicate poverty through a furniture and goods recycling service and by offering training and education for those in need. The Wimbledon Guild provides social welfare, counselling, a nursing and care home as well as an activity and social centre and various clubs and activities for older people.

Councillor Whelton, whose interests outside politics include film, travel and Liverpool FC, said: “I feel very honoured and privileged to have been elected Mayor.

“I got involved in local politics because I wanted to really make a real difference in my local community. I wanted to stand up for people who need most help and actually fight for better facilities and better services in my local area.

“By being Mayor and by working closely with these charities I really believe I can help people in the borough and serve all Merton residents to the best of my ability.”

Outgoing Mayor Councillor John Dehaney said: “I greatly enjoyed my time as Mayor and I found it very rewarding to be in a position to be able to support my chosen charities Deen City Farm and the Merton Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Group.”

Councillor Krysia Williams will replace Councillor Philip Jones as Deputy Mayor of Merton.

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