WINCHESTER has sworn in its 817th mayor in style.

Lib Dem councillor Jane Rutter takes on the role and was welcomed at the traditional ceremony held at Winchester Guildhall on Wednesday (May 18).

It is the first time in the city’s history where have been three female mayoral appointments in a row.

Cllr Rutter who serves as a councillor in Kings Worthy was welcomed in by departing mayor Angela Clear.

She spoke of feeling “overwhelmed” at being mayor.

Jane Rutter said: "I am very much looking forward to working with deputy mayor David McClean and his wife in the year ahead.

“I am delighted to have this opportunity to represent the city and district that I love, and spending a year getting to know it better.”

A new cabinet at Winchester City Council has also been officially formed which will be headed by council leader Stephen Godfrey.

One surprising addition is former council leader Rob Humby who resigned as council leader over handling of the controversial Silver Hill saga in February 2015.

He will now be the portfolio holder for business partnerships.

The cabinet itself is largely unchanged although some roles have changed. In an unsurprising move the deputy leader of Winchester City Council is still Vicki Weston.

Housing services is headed up by Caroline Horrill and Frank Pearson remains as portfolio holder for environment, health and wellbeing.

Cllr James Byrnes will now oversee transport and professional services. He was previously the portfolio holder for economy, but this will now be Cllr Steve Miller, who will also be in charge of estates.