Councillor David Longstaff of the High Barnet ward has become the 52nd Mayor of Barnet.

Cllr Longstaff was officially sworn in during the council’s annual meeting at Hendon Town Hall this evening (Tuesday).

He takes over from previous Mayor, Councillor Mark Shooter.

Gillian Griffiths will be the Mayoress while Sury Khatri and Tara Khatri will be Deputy Mayor and Deputy Mayoress respectively.

New Mayor, Cllr Longstaff said: “Since arriving in Barnet I’ve met many wonderful people and enjoyed living in a thriving, dynamic borough. I feel honoured to fill this office and pledge to serve the people of Barnet.”

Cllr Longstaff has represented the High Barnet ward since 2010 and since his arrival, he has chaired the Barnet Olympic Torch Relay Committee.

During his mayoral year Cllr Longstaff will support and raise money for the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice and Dementia Club UK.