ANDREW Moring will become Southend's new mayor on Thursday.

Hundreds of Council officials, residents, family members and friends have been invited to attend the council chamber at the Civic Centre in Victoria Avenue, Southend, to witness the official inauguration of Mr Moring at the town's traditional mayor-making ceremony from 3.30pm on Thursday, May 14

Mr Moring, who was appointed deputy mayor in 2014, takes over as first citizen of the borough from Chris Walker.

The Chartered Engineer and Fellow of the Institute of Engineering Technology who represents Eastwood Park Ward, was first elected to the Council in 2001.

He is the 95th person to be inaugurated as the Worshipful Mayor of Southend and will be assisted in his mayoral duties by his wife, Louise Moring.

Mr Moring, who was a council cabinet member for six years, currently serves on nine council committees and working parties.

He said: “My wife and I are looking forward to a wonderful year supporting the town.

“We hope to do what we can not only to have a good time but to support Southend businesses, charities and education.”