Cllr Lesley Dedman was sworn in at the annual council meeting and on being chosen she said, “It is an honour and privilege to be mayor of this ancient borough, and I look forward to carrying out my duties, attending events and meeting people across the borough.”

She has previously been elected to East Dorset District Council and Ferndown Town Council, where she served as mayor from 2007-2009.

Born and educated in London, Cllr Dedman travelled widely with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and the Merchant Navy. Starting married life in Wales, where she ran a small farm, Cllr Dedman has now lived in Dorset for over 30 years.

She is a proud mother of four and grandmother of six. As a former smallholder, animals still figure largely in her life, and she has two Labradors and a black cat – all can be seen accompanying her on walks in Mudeford.

Her nominated charity this year is The Dorset Community Foundation, which raises funds for those most in need across Dorset.

Cllr Peter Hall was elected to serve as deputy mayor.