Councillor Milton McKenzie MBE was elected Barking and Dagenham’s new mayor at the ceremonial council on Friday.
Cllr McKenzie became a ward councillor for Barking and Dagenham Council in 1998. He was awarded an MBE in 2009 for services to trade unionism and to diversity and equality opportunities in Barking and Dagenham.
The former Ford shop steward was appointed chair of the East London Waste Authority (ELWA) in 2002, a post he held for six years, and was also executive council member for environmental issues.
He has also served as a school governor at various junior and comprehensive schools, serving Gascoigne, Marks Gate and Chadwell Heath.
It was also announced that Living the Dream, which helps youngsters to develop their talents, would be the mayor’s charity appeal.
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