Norwich has a new Lord Mayor and Sheriff, while an organisation which helps disadvantaged young people and adults will get a funding boost during their civic year.

The annual meeting of Norwich City Council this afternoon (Tuesday) saw Ralph Gayton chosen as Lord Mayor of Norwich and John Jennings appointed as Sheriff.

Norwich-born Mr Gayton, Labour councillor for Mile Cross, said it was a 'high honour' to become mayor and revealed his long-standing City Hall link.

The grandfather of six, who lives in Aylsham Road, said: 'My father was involved in its construction all those years ago and, although I have no recollection of the event, I was told by my mother that at the tender age of two years and two months I was among the crowd at its opening in October 1938. Much later I also had the pleasure of being employed here for 20 years before my retirement.'

New Sheriff John Jennings, who helped set up the Norwich Teachers' Centre, based in Ipswich Road, said his appointment was a tribute to all the inspirational teachers who worked in the centre.

He said: 'I am enormously pleased, proud and honoured to be appointed.'

The pair have picked Earlham-based Future Projects, which provides education, training and support to disadvantaged young people and adults, as their civic charity.

Lucie Fox, funding manager at Future Projects, said: 'Funds raised will help contribute towards our programme of activities to provide education and learning opportunities for disadvantaged young people.'

The pair succeed outgoing Lord Mayor Jenny Lay, Labour councillor for Crome ward and Sheriff Chris Higgins, landlord of the Trafford Arms pub in Grove Road.

During their civic year, the duo raised money for the Big C Family Cancer Support and Information Centre, based at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.