New mayor's pledge

A mayor for the people is how Wyre Forest District councillor Howard Martin wants to be known after being chosen for the role of highest civic office.

He was sworn in as town mayor at Kidderminster Town Hall last night and afterwards said he did not want to be aloof and standing apart from people in the town.

He said: "I want to try to be a mayor for the people. It is very humbling to hold the office of mayor as it is the highest civic honour the town can offer."