CHRISTCHURCH has welcomed it's first Independent mayor in more than 10 years.

Cllr Fred Neale, one of only two Independent councillors at Christchurch, was sworn in as mayor during a traditional ceremony at Highcliffe Castle on Tuesday.

It comes after uncertainty surrounding the position, following the death of a Labour candidate in the Walkford and North Highcliffe ward before the local elections.

The death of Richard Walls meant the poll was suspended and the ward will instead elect its borough councillors on June 18.

Tory candidate Nick Geary, the Mayor-elect for 2015/2016, was therefore unable to take up the position, as he is not a councillor.

At an extraordinary meeting, prior to the annual council meeting, Cllr Fred Neale, who was due to be made deputy mayor for this year, and Cllr Trish Jamieson, were unanimously voted mayor and deputy.

The last independent mayor of Christchurch was Robert McArthur, who was the mayor for the Millennium year.

Since then, all of the mayors of Christchurch have been Tories.

Speaking in favour of Cllr Neale, Cllr David Flagg said the Jumpers ward member had always been a "willing volunteer".

Cllr Neale works with Age Concern Christchurch and is chairman of the Friends of Christchurch Railway Station.

Cllr Flagg said it was likely to be a busy year for Cllr Neale and his wife and mayoress, Barbara, as they are set to become grandparents as well.

Cllr Claire Bath echoed the compliments: "Cllr Neale works tirelessly for Christchurch; he is an all-round lovely man."

Thanking members for their support, Cllr Neale said: "It is very unfortunate that the circumstances was as a result of a candidate's death.

"On behalf of the council and myself, I would like to give my sincere condolences.

"I would also like to thank Nick Geary for all the assistance he has given me."

Outgoing Mayor, Cllr Denise Jones, was also praised for her dedication to the role, with Cllr Peter Hall saying residents had "taken her to their hearts".

Cllr Neale's chosen charities for the mayoral year will be Age Concern Christchurch, Friends of Christchurch Railway Station and Christchurch and District Scouts.

His chaplain will be the new priest at the Priory, Reverend Canon Charles Stewart.