Slough's new mayor and deputy sworn in

Councillor Dilbagh S. Parmar (Lab: Cippenham Meadows) has taken the reins of mayor after serving a year as deputy mayor to councillor Mohammed Nazir (Lab: Baylis & Stoke).

He was sworn in the role at the annual full council meeting on Thursday, May 19.

Cllr Parmar said he was “honoured” and “privileged” to be Slough’s first citizen and looks forward to meeting and serving as many residents, volunteers, and organisations throughout the year.

READ MORE: Horlicks Factory site 'taking shape' as part of Slough regeneration

Deputy leader Pavitar K. Mann (Lab: Britwell & Northborough) said she “could not think of anyone better” to serve Slough with honour, calling him a “diligent, dedicated, and honourable man”.

She said: “We know the year ahead is going to be, in some ways, a very tough one but I know that Cllr Parmar will deal with what’s coming ahead in a very fair and even-handed manner.

READ MORE: Royal Berkshire Hospital: Call to rebuild hospital on new site

“But we also know it’s going to be a very exciting year ahead with the Jubilee celebrations just around the corner and as the first citizen of Slough, who will be our representative for this special occasion, I can think of no one better and I know he will do us proud.”

Cllr Haqeeq Dar (Lab: Wexham Lea) was sworn in as the town’s deputy mayor for the year.

Cllr Dar has taken the role as deputy mayor

Proposing Cllr Dar for deputy, Cllr Sabia Akram (Lab: Elliman) said he was the “father of the chamber” and is often referred to as “Daddy Dar” because of his “fortitude” and “fatherliness” to members.

Cllr Dar said he hopes to deputise when needs be and to the best of his ability.

The seven Conservative councillor and Independent councillor Madhuri Bedi (Foxborough) voted against Cllr Dar becoming deputy.