The city’s first ever Green mayor has donned his robes for the first time.

Brighton and Hove City Council leader Bill Randall was helped into the ceremonial robes by outgoing mayor Labour councillor Anne Meadows at Hove Town Hall yesterday (May 17).

Fundraising during his year as mayor will be for LGBT charity Allsorts, the Martlets Hospice in Hove and Brighton Women’s Centre.

Coun Randall was presented with a plaque of friendship from the city of Derry in Northern Ireland by Councillor Phelim MacCafferty, who grew up in the area.

There was some disruption at the meeting as eggs were thrown at the building in Norton Road from the nearby car park.

Council officials received notice that there would be a protest by the English Defence League, although last night it was unclear who was responsible for the disruption.

Councillor Meadows raised about £20,000 for her charities the Federation for Disabled People, Sussex Beacon and Rise.

She thanked all those who supported her in the role, adding: “I call it the Doctor Who factor. The chains and gown remain the same but the person inside them changes.”

Among her highlights were a visit by the Princess Royal, the Council of Europe reception and receiving the salute from the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment during its march through the city last year.

Jason Kitcat was also confirmed as the new council leader.