Colchester's millennium mayor has been sworn in at the traditional ceremony at the town hall.

Liberal Democrat Martin Hunt was formally voted in and handed the robes and badge of office by outgoing mayor David Cannon.

Mr Hunt, who has represented the Prettygate ward for 15 years, was accompanied by his wife Rita who will be mayoress.

Mr Hunt passed his deputy mayor's chain on to Conservative Christopher Garnett. His wife Ann will be deputy mayoress.

Cricket fan Mr Hunt announced his theme for the year would be "taking fresh guard".

He said as we approach the next century it was time for everyone to examine their lives and for the council to examine what it did and whether we ought to be changing things for the people coming after us.

He told the annual meeting yesterday his main two charities for the year would be the Army Benevolent Fund and the Special Constable Benevolent Fund.

He added both he and deputy mayor Christopher Garnett had decided to nominate a special millennium charity which will be the Essex Air Ambulance.

Mr Cannon, speaking about his past year as mayor, said: "We really had a fantastic time. It is virtually impossible to put into words.

"We have had wonderful support from everybody; councillors, family and friends."

He added the mayor's charities this year had raised more than £40,000. The council then adjourned to the council chamber to approve the constitution and membership of committees for the coming year.

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