LIBERAL Democrat councillor Pamela Holden-Brown has become Eastleigh’s first citizen, taking over the chain of office from retiring mayor Councillor Derek Pretty.

Mrs Holden-Brown, aged 74, was elected to Eastleigh Council in 2006 and the following year became chairman of Chandler’s Ford and Hiltingbury Local Area Committee.

For 12 years she was a Hampshire county councillor and during that time was social services spokesman.

Born in Croydon, she is married with three sons and four grandchildren.

She has worked in the community for many years, supporting husband Terry in his Round Table and Rotary activities.

The new mayor’s interests include walking, reading, swimming, and listening to big band, jazz and brass music. Taking over the role of deputy mayor will be Conservative councillor John Caldwell.