THE new mayor of Redditch is off to a running start after a busy first day supporting charity events and working on new ways to get in touch with constituents.

Cllr Juliet Brunner, who was sworn into office officially on Monday, spent her first day meeting with council staff, charities and local residents.

Cllr Brunner supported Redditch Borough Council workers and councillors in hosting an awareness event and fundraising for the Alzheimer’s Society during dementia action week.

People were able to enjoy quizzes, a cake sale and make their pledge to create changes to the community that people with dementia want and need.

Cllr Brunner said: “There are currently 850,000 people with dementia in the UK so I was delighted and proud to support this event as part of my first day as mayor of Redditch.

"I made a pledge to make sure that signage in the town hall changes to make it more dementia friendly, helping our local residents struggling with this illness. As a community we need to do all we can to support people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.”

As part of her first day as mayor, cllr Brunner also set about making sure that she was accessible to constituents.

Recognising the importance of social media, she has set up her own Facebook (@RedditchMayor2018) and Twitter (@MayorofRedditch).

Anyone without access to social media can contact the mayor via email at mayor@redditchbc.gov.uk, or call on 07990 733054.

Cllr Brunner added: “The saying ‘start as you mean to go on’ feels particularly relevant after a very busy but exciting first day as Mayor.

"It is an honour and a privilege to serve Redditch and I am looking forward to meeting lots more residents, attending and helping with local events and raising funds for my chosen charities, which are all very close to my heart.”