THE new Mayor of Dudley has spoken of his "pride and honour" at taking on the role.

Gornal councillor David Stanley, who was first elected in the town in 1987, said he was also looking forward to finding out more about the southern half of the borough while undertaking his 12-month post.

He officially became mayor at Dudley Council's annual meeting last Thursday (May 18).

Cllr Stanley said: "It's my great pride and honour to become Mayor of Dudley.

"I've been impressed with the amount of talented people there are in this borough.

"I have always been very conversant with the northern half of the borough and I look forward to finding out more about the southern half."

Speaking at the meeting, re-elected Dudley Council leader David Caunt said cllr Stanley had already served an "apprenticeship" in the role last autumn during Cllr John Woodall's absence due to ill-health.

Cllr Stanley's chosen charities during his term will be the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Alzheimer's Society.

Cllr Ray Burston was also elected as the Deputy Mayor and Belle Vale councillor Jill Nicholls will be the Mayor's Consort during the year.

Cllr Charles Fraser-Macnamara was also re-elected as deputy leader of the council.

Outgoing Mayor cllr John Woodall thanked the borough for a "fantastic" year and the support he received during his health problems.

The Halesowen South councillor bowed out as Mayor of Dudley last Thursday (May 17) after his 12-month stint in office.

His spell was halted for three months last autumn after he contracted the MRSA bug.

He said: "I enjoyed a fantastic year as the borough's first citizen.

"It's been a wonderful experience and I would not have missed it for the world.

"I will cherish these memories for a long time to come.

"My deputy was called upon to do a lot more than expected. We wish him a special year.

"It's been a pleasure to be a member of the 2006/07 chain gang'."

Council leader cllr Caunt said: "Despite everything that was thrown at John during the year he has been a rock.

"John you have shown great dignity in office and always with that little twinkle in your eye.

"I hope you remember all the good times this year, there were many."

Labour leader cllr David Sparks paid his own tribute, calling him an "inspiration".