CITY centre councillor Brian Watson has been named as the Lord Mayor of York for 2008/09.

The appointment of Coun Watson, one of the two Labour representatives for Guildhall ward, was formally announced at last night's full meeting of City of York Council.

He will replace the current Lord Mayor, Coun Irene Waudby, and become the first male Lord Mayor for five years.

Coun Watson's nomination was proposed by Labour leader David Scott, seconded by Liberal Democrat leader Steve Galloway, and unanimously passed. Labour stalwart David Wilde, who stood down from the council last May after many years, has been selected by Coun Watson to serve as Sheriff of York.