Manchester's new Lord Mayor takes office (Lib Dem Reaction)

7.54.32am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 23rd Jun 2004

Opposition Liberal Democrat Group Leader Simon Ashley has congratulated Tom O'Callaghan and his partner Terrie on their election as Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress. The election, which will take place at Wednesday's Council meeting, follows Tom's year as Deputy Lord Mayor under outgoing Lord Mayor Audrey Jones, and her Lady Mayoress Helen Jones. Both will be returning to the Lib Dem benches.

Cllr Ashley said, "I knew Terrie as a receptionist at the Gorton South Housing Office before Tom was elected in 1994. This is just reward as both have spent years serving the people of East Manchester. I hope they have a busy and fulfilling year."

Cllr Ashley added, "Audrey Jones has been an exceptional Lord Mayor, and both her and Helen deserve our Thanks for their service to the people of Manchester over the past 13 months.

Councillor Simon Ashley

Leader Of The Opposition

Manchester City Council

Tel : 0161 234 3354

Email : simon@gorton.org