Greta Goatley was elected the new Madam Mayor for Gravesham at an annual council meeting last night.

Cllr Goatley (Con) is being supported by her daughter, Victoria Bance, as the Mayor’s Escort.

The mum-of-two, who came to Gravesend 42 years ago, represents Central ward and said on the night: "I've seen many changes in that time, especially the coming together of many different community groups.

"To those groups I offer this message: If you want the Mayor to be there, consider me your Martini girl. Any time, any place, any where."

She replaces waterman and magistrate Mick Wenban who said during the meeting: "I've thoroughly enjoyed my year. They say times flies when you're having fun - where has this year gone?

"The two things people ask me most are, 'is that chain made of gold?' and 'are you enjoying it?' The answer to both is, 'you betcha!'."