DUDLEY'S new Mayor has pledged to give a big boost to three borough charities after officially being sworn in this evening (Thursday).

Councillor Dave Tyler (Labour), who represents Kingswinford North and Wall Heath, was officially elected as the borough's first citizen at a packed civic ceremony in the council chamber.

The former Deputy Mayor named Dudley Mind, the YMCA and Dudley Alzheimer’s Society as his chosen charities for the year and he said: “It is a huge honour and a privilege to be Mayor of this borough and something I am proud to take on.

“It is an opportunity to not only highlight the fantastic work that these charities do to support people who need help, but also help raise vital funds to help them carry on for many years.”

He said there had not been a councillor for Kingswinford and Wall Heath elected as Mayor since 1966.

Councillor Tyler named his wife Barbara as Mayoress who will accompany him on civic visits throughout the year.

The deputy Mayor of Dudley was named as Councillor Alan Taylor with Winifred Taylor as deputy Mayoress.

People can follow the Mayor on his civic engagements on Twitter - @DudleyMayor.