MAYORAL chains were handed to the new first citizens during a series of ceremonies.

Gravesham's youngest ever mayor Councillor Ray Parker, 32, took over from Councillor John Loughlin, 65.

Dartford's new mayor Councillor Ian Armitt took over from Councillor Bertie Bassam.

Last year's Swanley mayor Councillor Gill Fittock stood down to make way for Councillor Barrie Wigg.

The mayors' roles are largely ceremonial and with the help of their deputies, they will promote causes in the area, oversee council affairs and raise funds for their chosen charities.

Cllr Parker said: "For the coming year I hope to promote what is good about Gravesham, from our rich history of Dickens and Pocahontas to the new opportunities which await us."

His chosen charities will be homeless organisation the Sisters of Mercy, Edwin Road, Gravesend, Northfleet's Lion's Hospice, in Coldharbour Road, and Darent Valley Hospital.

The deputy mayor for Gravesham remains unchanged, with Cllr Harry Smith continuing in the role.

Cllr Armitt said he had never in his "wildest flights of fancy expected to have the honour" of being Dartford's mayor.

He added: "I pledge to fulfil my duties to the best of my ability and to promote the borough's many attributes and achievements in whatever way I can."

His charities are both at Darent Valley Hospital.

He will help raise money for the Lollipop Appeal for a high-dependency area for seriously ill children and for equipment for the hospital's Valley Park Radio Station so it can transmit to patients all the time.

Last year's deputy mayor, Cllr Armitt leaves those responsibilities to Cllr David Hammock.

Dartford's mayoress will be Cllr Jennifer Rikwood.

The new Swanley mayor Cllr Barrie Wigg will have Cllr Lesley Dyball as his deputy.

Sevenoaks' chairman as opposed to a mayor will this year be Councillor Ian Bosley, who represents Fawkham and West Kingsdown.