Local history made as Richmond poised to elect first openly gay Mayor

5.51.14pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 14th May 2007

The new Mayor of Richmond upon Thames, Cllr Marc Cranfield-Adams, is the first openly gay Mayor of the Borough. His election took place on Tuesday, 15 May at the Council's Annual Meeting in York House, Twickenham. Cllr Cranfield-Adams has pledged that "diversity and inclusiveness" will be the twin themes to be celebrated during his Mayoral year. Cllr Cranfield-Adams said: "It's an immense honour and privilege to serve as Mayor and I approach the coming year with great excitement and anticipation. The themes reflect my overriding aim: to ensure all sections of our diverse society feel they are part of one community. We must celebrate diversity and encourage inclusiveness. Many events during my Mayoral year will promote these vital themes, with more than a touch of innovation along the way."

This builds on the approach developed by Cllr Cranfield-Adams as Chairman of the Council's multi-faith group, the Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education (SACRE). He has lived in the borough for the past seven years and was first elected to Richmond Council for North Richmond in 2002. A public relations consultant by profession, he aims to boost the funds of two charities during his Mayoral year. He will raise money for the Diabetes UK Richmond and Twickenham Voluntary Group and "Stepping on Out", an innovative community-based non profit making organisation run by young adults with, learning difficulties.

Cllr Cranfield-Adams said: "These are marvellous causes. Stepping On Out is a real pioneer organisation, providing effective and fulfilling opportunities for adults with learning difficulties. It helps them to develop essential skills and work experience needed for future employment. Diabetes UK mission is to improve the lives of people with diabetes and to work towards a future without diabetes. It works for people with diabetes, their carers, family and friends. There are nearly 4,500 known diabetics in this borough, and I am among them, as is Cllr Helen Lee-Parson, my Deputy Mayor. I am determined to raise as much money as possible to further the excellent work of both these charities."

Born in Cardiff, Cllr Cranfield-Adams lists cricket among his interests (he played club cricket for 25 seasons). He is now a member of Middlesex County Cricket Club and Vice-President of Penarth Cricket Club); and is a supporter of Welsh rugby. He also has a passion for classical music and family history. He is writing a biography of his late great-grandfather, who fought in the Boer War, undertook peace-keeping duties in Northern China and in World War One. He also champions pedal power, explaining: "I cycle as often as possible and aim to be an environmentally-friendly Mayor"

The new Deputy Mayor, Cllr Helen Lee-Parsons , is a West Twickenham councillor. The new Mayor regularly attends St Mary Magdalene Church in Richmond and the Rector, Canon Julian Reindorp, will be his Principal Chaplain. In line with his themes, the new Mayor has invited representatives from diverse faiths to events throughout the year, including the Civic Service, which will be held at St Mary Magdalene on June 3 (11.30am). The last time the Civic Service was held at this church was in 1972.