Councillor Irene Waudby will be the first woman in City of York Council's history to hold the position of Lord Mayor twice when she is sworn in at the annual council meeting on Thursday (24 May).

Cllr Waudby was previously Lord Mayor during the 2001/02 municipal year. She takes over from Janet Hopton MBE and is the fourth lady Lord Mayor in succession. Interestingly the last three were all named Janet!

Mr Derek Waudby will be the Lord Mayor's Consort, whilst Councillor Keith Hyman will take over as Sheriff of York. His Sheriff's Lady will be Mrs Karen Hyman.

The York City Waits will fanfare the Lord Mayor and civic party at the beginning of the meeting, and will herald in the new civic party as they leave the Guildhall.

Following the annual council meeting, there will be a procession to the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall on Fossgate via St Helen’s Square, Davygate and Parliament Street.