Richmond'S mayor-elect has decided he wants to share his sense of civic pride with as many people as possible this year - and has announced plans to have a dozen consorts as a result.

According to tradition, the town's leading citizen is usually accompanied by a spouse or partner on official engagements throughout their year of office.

However, as a bachelor, Councillor Stuart Parsons spotted an ideal opportunity to include others in the experience. He has, therefore, invited 12 members of different organisations to join him on his formal duties.

Rhoda Fraser, of the Richmond Operatic Society, will be the first to become consort.

She will be followed by Sam Andrews, of Richmond Live; Tina Holliday, of Richmond Amateur Dramatic Society; Mike Pattison, of the Richmond Business and Tourism Association and Linda Bake, of the Richmond Meet.

Also acting as consorts will be: Dot Hutchinson, from the local branch of the Royal British Legion; Pam Crawford from the Alzheimer's Disease Society; Lynette Williams from Childline; Pat Fava, from Soroptimists International; Fred Petch, from the Richmond Rotary Club; Sheila Elkins, from the Reeth Road Social Club; and Frank Stockton, of Richmond Duck Club.

"I would like my year as mayor to be marked by a greater sense of inclusiveness in the town," said Councillor Parsons.

"I am keen to show a similar sense of cross community spirit in the appointment of the mayor's chaplain, so I have invited Churches Together to nominate a number of clergy to be involved.

"There are so many different groups in the town doing so much good."

He added: "I am just keen to see if there is anything I can do to encourage a greater sense of what I call pride in Richmond.

"In this year of the Golden Jubilee, which the Queen has asked to be dedicated to the community, I am happy my initiative will help celebrate and honour all those who work so hard to improve life in Richmond.

"There are so many more I hope will be involved during my year in office.