THE 132nd mayor of Warrington was officially sworn into the role at yesterday's annual council meeting at the Town Hall.

Cllr Geoff Settle (LAB - Poulton North) takes over the ceremonial chains from Cllr Ted Finnegan (LD - Grappenhall and Thelwall) after a unanimous vote.

Cllr Faisal Rashid (LAB - Whittle Hall) received a majority vote to become the town's deputy mayor.

Joined in the room by wife Jean, as well as his two children, Nick and Katie, Cllr Settle praised Cllr Finnegan and his wife Mavis, who both received honorary badges, for their efforts in the last year.

"I first came across the town 30 years ago when, like many people trying to get to work and being held up on the M62, I used to try and find new routes around Warrington," he said.

"We realise that the next year is going to be a very busy one with lots more people to see and friendships to renew before it all comes to a sharp end this time next year.

"We realise that our workload will increase from 60 to 500 engagements but we are looking forward to the experience.

"Previous mayors have emphasised the pleasure that they have had in office and told us to enjoy our time as it will be over in a flash and we look forward to meeting many more inspirational people and organisations."

The 61-year-old announced there will be four mayoral charities, with the theme focusing on 'wellbeing of the mind'.

The charities he will be focusing on are MacIntyre, National Autistic Society, Bipolar UK and the John Holt Cancer Support Foundation.

"Needless to say it has been difficult to choose my charities this year – I am a trustee of a couple and committee members of others – all are suffering greatly in the current economic climate," said Cllr Settle.

"It is my aim to raise money and awareness for the charities through a series of events throughout the years using three of my passions of art, exercise and nature conservation."

Cllr Settle also spoke of his pride after confirming the Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, Sikh, Hindu and Muslim faith groups would be invited to council meetings in the next year.

"Warrington is becoming a much more diverse community as seen at the annual Mela and I feel that this is an opportunity," he added.

"I am delighted that different faiths will be reflected in the council chamber over the next year."