Town's first woman mayor hopes to inspire females

Prerna Bhardwaj, who worked in finance and media in the City and internationally, said it was an "honour and privilege" to take on the role

A town council has elected a woman as mayor for the first time.

Prerna Bhardwaj was unanimously elected at Gerrards Cross Town Council's annual statutory meeting.

She said: "Being the first female mayor, I intend to inspire more women and young individuals to be active in politics."

Ms Bhardwaj will hold the position in the Buckinghamshire town until May 2025 and takes over from Brian Peck.

"I look forward to meeting and working with local residents, businesses and community groups," she added.

Ms Bhardwaj was born in Essex and moved to Gerrards Cross with her young family.

The meeting also confirmed her fellow councillor Jaspal Chhokar will serve as the town's deputy mayor, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The council celebrated the election of the town’s first female mayor as "a historic moment for Gerrards Cross".

In her register of interests, Ms Bhardwaj said she was a legal and regulatory consultant for real estate firm Linetex investments, where her partner is also a director.

The town council is a civil parish which is responsible for improving Gerrards Cross' amenities.