Council elects first ethic minority mayor

Councillor Sarbie Kang represents West End and Bisley ward

Surrey Heath Borough Council has elected its first ever ethic minority mayor.

West End and Bisley ward councillor Sarbie Kang was chosen as the borough council's 52nd mayor and was sworn in for the forthcoming year on Wednesday.

"Surrey Heath has a bright future, and I am committed to working tirelessly to encourage all residents to make it a safe, environmentally friendly, and inclusive borough for all," she said.

This year the mayor will be supporting two charities, South East Coast Ambulance Service and Camberley Care Trust.

Ms Kang, who is from Punjab in India, said: "I will grab the opportunity with both hands to not only raise the profile of two very worthwhile charities, but also the much-needed funding they require to allow them to continue their incredible work."

Cllr Louise Ashbery, who represents Heatherside ward, is the new deputy mayor.

Surrey Heath Borough Council holds an election every May to confirm its new mayor.

The primary duty of the elected mayor is to chair meetings of the full council.