COLCHESTER’S new mayor has promised to recognise the work carried out by the borough’s volunteers over the next 12 months.

Sonia Lewis, a Conservative councillor, who has served Lexden since 1992, was unanimously elected at Colchester Council’s mayor making ceremony yesterday.

After donning the mayoral robes, Mrs Lewis pointed out that, for the first time, the mayor, deputy mayor and council leader – Anne Turrell – are all women.

She said: “All I have to say is – look out Colchester, here come the girls!”

Watched by more than 100 people, Mrs Lewis put on the robes, badge and chain of office, taking over from Henry Spyvee.

Over the next year, she will chair full council meetings, represent the authority at civic occasions and elsewhere, and organise events to raise money for a series of charities.

Mrs Lewis, who has volunteered for a host of organisations, including the WRVS, Age Concern, Colchester Care Network and Shopmobility, said she was hosting a reception for volunteer groups tomorrow.

She added: “I have always been a community councillor and I’m looking forward to getting to know the Colchester community even better. My theme is Colchester, the community and the volunteer.”

Her chosen causes include the Army Benevolent Fund, Multiple Sclerosis and Lexden Scouts. Farmer’s daughter Mrs Lewis has spent the past 12 months as deputy mayor, a role now taken by Lib Dem councillor for St Anne’s, Helen Chuah.