RESIDENTS are invited to attend the Colchester mayor making ceremony.

The traditional procession at Colchester Town Hall on Wednesday will see all councillors adorn robes before formally voting for the new mayor and deputy mayor.

Labour councillor Julie Young will be sworn in as the borough’s 184th mayor with husband Tim as her escort. The deputy mayor will be Highwoods Independent councillor Gerard Oxford.

Outgoing mayor Theresa Higgins will hand over the mayoral robes and badge to Mrs Young after making their speech of thanks. After formal acceptance, she will give the deputy mayor’s regalia to Mr Oxford.

Councillors will then adjourn to approve membership of the year’s committees and panels and other items of business.

Mrs Young said: “Taking up the position of mayor is a wonderful opportunity to meet communities across the borough.

“I look forward to the events and good work we can achieve in the year ahead.”

Doors will open at 10am for a 10.30am start and the audience will include representatives from Colchester Garrison and other civic dignitaries.