The new Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council has been sworn in.

Labour Councillor Richard Butler will replace Cllr Pat Strack after her year in office ended on Monday night.

The Cowley Hill representative was elected by a unanimous vote at the full council meeting at the civic offices, on Monday, May 18.

Cllr Butler started as a youth councillor at the age of 12, following in the footsteps of his father, Ernie Butler, who stood down earlier this month.

Cllr Butler stood to become the next MP Hertsmere during the May 7 elections but missed out to Conservative Oliver Dowden.

In his first speech as mayor, Cllr Butler thanked his girlfriend, Rebecca Challice.

He said: “The town council has always held a special place in my heart. I hope we can inspire other young members of our community to work towards their goals as I have.”

Cllr Butler's mother, Shirley Butler, died before the elections and he paid tribute to her in his speech.

He added: “I would also like to thank Rebecca for her solid support at all the events we have attended together over the past year.

“My dad for his community spirit, wisdom and guidance over the years we have been councillors together and my mum who was a rock to myself and my father as we both went out to serve our community.

“I look forward to this year and all that we will achieve working together.”

Elstree councillor Anne Mitchell was elected as the town council’s new deputy mayor and will work alongside Cllr Butler.