INCOMING Mayor Derek Benfield (Lab, Covingham and Nythe) says that he faces one of the toughest years of his life when he accepts the mayoral office - staying apolitical.

Coun Benfield, 70, who was born in a terraced house in Albion Street, has been a borough councillor since 1992, but in his role as chairman of the council will have to sit on the fence.

He said: "I think staying neutral will be one of the most difficult things I've had to do while I've been in the council, but I can't wait to get started and I'm really excited about what the year holds."

Having served an apprenticeship under outgoing mayor Stan Pajak (Lib Dem, Eastcott) and attended more than 70 functions in his role, Coun Benfield knows exactly what to expect. And having three children, six grandchildren and a great grandson, he says he has the stamina to last the distance.

One of the first things Coun Benfield plans to do when taking up residence in the mayor's parlour will be to kit it out with a bar, which will include at least 12 malt whiskies!

And he is keen to keep with tradition and adopt the ceremonial robes when chairing full council meetings, unlike Coun Pajak who caused a storm when he decided to banish mayor's formal dress from the council chamber.

Coun Benfield said: "I'm extremely proud and consider it a great honour to be mayor of Swindon.

"I'm not in the least bit nervous and an very much looking forward to the challenge."