Bristol's new mayor appeals for 'unity'

George Ferguson said he holds "no grudges" and has begun talks with all political groups

Bristol's new elected mayor has appealed for "unity" at the first full council meeting following his election.

George Ferguson has begun talks with all political groups with regards to forming a cross-party cabinet of councillors.

The architect, known for wearing red trousers, won last Thursday's poll with a total of 37,353 votes, ahead of Labour's Marvin Rees.

Mr Ferguson said he held "absolutely no grudges, I never do."

"Angry things are said at elections and we know that," he added.

"But now we have the great responsibility to live up to the expectation of the people of Bristol to work together."

Mr Ferguson also called for greater enforcement against drivers parking on cycle lanes and drivers who stop in the cycle-only area by traffic lights.

During the meeting the 65-year-old was hailed as "the red-trousered wizard of democracy" by councillor Simon Cook, leader of the Liberal Democrats in the city.

<link> <caption>It was also announced</caption> <url href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-20409663" platform="highweb"/> </link> that the city's ceremonial lord mayor, councillor Peter Main, was to receive treatment for prostate cancer.