A Richmond councillor has become the south-west London borough's first openly gay mayor.

Councillor Marc Cranfield-Adams was elected at last night's annual council meeting at Twickenham's York House.

The new mayor pledged to make his term a year of "diversity and inclusiveness".

He said: "It's an immense honour and privilege to serve as mayor and I approach the coming year with great excitement and anticipation. The themes reflect my overriding aim: to ensure all sections of our diverse society feel they are part of one community. We must celebrate diversity and encourage inclusiveness. Many events during my mayoral year will promote these vital themes, with more than a touch of innovation along the way."

West Twickenham councillor Helen Lee-Parsons will serve as deputy mayor.

Councillor Cranfield-Adams is currently the chairman of the council's multi-faith group, the Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education (SACRE), and has lived in the borough for the past seven years.

He was first elected to Richmond Council for North Richmond in 2002 and will be raising money for Diabetes UK Richmond and Twickenham voluntary group, Stepping on Out, a community-based organisation run by young adults with learning difficulties.

Coun Cranfield-Adams said: "These are marvellous causes. Stepping On Out is a real pioneer organisation, providing effective and fulfilling opportunities for adults with learning difficulties. It helps them to develop essential skills and work experience needed for future employment.

"Diabetes UK's mission is to improve the lives of people with diabetes and to work towards a future without diabetes. It works for people with diabetes, their carers, family and friends. There are nearly 4,500 known diabetics in this borough, and I am among them, as is Councillor Helen Lee-Parson, my deputy mayor. I am determined to raise as much money as possible to further the excellent work of both these charities."