A NORTH Yorkshire Police Cadet has become the first ever to be appointed to serve with the Mayor of the Borough of Scarborough.

Mally Leybourn, of Scarborough, will accompany the Councillor Joe Plant and Mrs Margaret Plant, the Mayor and Mayoress, at events and functions throughout the year.

As the Mayor’s Cadet, the 17-year-old will act as an ambassador for both his cadet group and for the borough, and his duties will include speaking with members of the public, helping with charity events and giving readings at church services.

Neil Lancey, from the force's Citizens in Policing Liaison Office, said: "This appointment is a huge honour and it highlights the important role that the police cadet scheme plays in our communities.

"It’s also a great way to instil civic pride and a sense of public service in young people in North Yorkshire. We’re incredibly grateful for this opportunity and I know Mally can’t wait to get started in his new role."

Cllr Plant approached North Yorkshire Police with the idea, and Mally’s first invitation to an official civic engagement was the Mayor making ceremony on Thursday.

He is also due to attend a civic church service later this month at St Mary’s Parish Church, Scarborough, where he will address the audience in his new role.