Oxford's new Lord Mayor Pat Stannard is looking forward to his first free meal -- a chicken korma curry.

Gill Sanders and Pat Stannard

The Labour city councillor, who has represented the East and Blackbird Leys wards for 12 years, was presented with his chain of office on May 12 at the annual Mayor-making ceremony at the town hall.

Former research technician Mr Stannard, 64, replaces fellow Labour councillor Gill Sanders, who has become deputy mayor.

He said: "My first duty is joining the Bangladeshi Society for a curry at the Aziz restaurant in Cowley Road, so I am looking forward to a nice mild chicken korma.

"There will be quite a few free meals along the way so I'm going to have to watch my waistline.

"Most Mayors say they put on weight, and I think lots of cycling will help."

The new Sheriff will be Labour councillor Bryan Keen.