THE new Mayor of Ferryhill has created a piece of history by following in the footsteps of her husband.

Councillor Doreen Greenwell, mayor for the past year, handed on the chains of office to Councillor Christine Woods.

Coun Wood is the wife of Councillor Valman Woods, who was the town's first mayor when the office was created in 1999.

The new mayor said: "It's the first time a married couple have both been the Mayor of Ferryhill, so it is something that goes down in history. It is a privilege to be nominated and to know that my fellow councillors have faith in me."

Coun Woods has chosen the North East Air Ambulance and Ferryhill Town Band as her good causes for the year.

Coun Greenwell raised £3,740 for Rosebank Special School, in Ferryhill, during her year in office.