New Sandwell mayor Keith Davies steps into role

Long-standing councillor Keith Davies has been unveiled as the new mayor of Sandwell.

Councillor Davies, who has served Sandwell for more than 20 years, was made first citizen of the borough at a full council ceremony last night.

Accepting the honour, he nominated his two charities for his year in office as Help For Heroes and Different Strokes, based at Sandwell Hospital.

He himself suffered a stroke years ago, and he thanked his speech therapist Deborah Gray as he was made mayor. He said: "I shall endeavour to represent the people of Sandwell. It is a real honour bestowed on me and through me to the people of Smethwick, whom I represent."

His wife, Hateley Heath Councillor Pat Davies, known affectionately at the authority as 'Aunty Pat', accepted the chains of office to act as mayoress. They will be joined by new deputy mayor Councillor Vic Sylvester and his deputy, wife Carole.

Outgoing dayor and deputy mayor Joyce Underhill and Ann Shackleton were thanked for their efforts.