New mayor thanks people of Milton Keynes for their support after "strange" election ceremony

Long-standing Tory counciillor Andrew, who is a farmer from Hanslope, had to be sworn in at a virtual ceremony due to the Covid-19 crisis.

"It was a strange and different way of doing things, but of course absolutely necessary during the current climate. It also meant we broke new ground in the way we communicate," he said,

The ceremony, which took place at last week's Annual Meeting of Milton Keynes Council, was viewed by more than 1000 people online.

Andrew said: "As we move forward, my wife Lisa and I very much look forward to engaging with the community, and learning more about the many groups and individuals who work so hard for the betterment of MK and help to make it such an inspiring, wonderful place to live."

The deputy mayorship, due to go to Labour counciilor Moriah Priestley has been deferred because claims involving her integrity were made by a whistleblower hours before the ceremony.

These allegations, which have been denied by Cllr Priestley, are currently being investigated by party leaders.