WINCHESTER has welcomed in the city's 817th mayor in style.

Liberal Democrat councillor Jane Rutter welcomed at the traditional ceremony held at Winchester Guildhall last night.

It is the first time in the city's history when there have been three female mayors in a row.

Cllr Rutter who represents Kings Worthy was welcomed in by departing mayor Angela Clear and spoke of feeling "overwhelmed" at being mayor.

She said: "I am very much looking forward to working with deputy mayor David McLean 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."

Watching on were members of her family including her son who travelled from San Francisco for the occasion.

More than 200 people gathered in the Bapsy Hall, which included performance by the Waynflete Singers who are based in the city.

Cllr Rutter who is in fact a member of the choir, sung with them in her ceremonial robes before being officially announced as mayor.

Her five chosen charities are Combat Stress, Music For All, Street Reach, Homestart and Winchester Youth Counselling.

Mrs Rutter is a mother-of-three who has lived in the area since 1995, and is married to husband Duncan.

She was elected onto the council in 2010 and has been heavily involved in the community in Kings Worthy and Headbourne Worthy.

She has helped organise the popular Worthys Festival, a week-long celebration of village life.

Lib Dem group leader Lucille Thompson spoke glowingly of Cllr Rutter: “I know she will be an impressive mayor and will represent the local people with dignity and panache, and I am delighted to recommend her to you."

A vote of thanks was given to departing mayor Angela Clear by Cllr Therese Evans who praised her enthusiasm, charm, good sense of humour and ability.

In a speech filled with humour, Cllr Clear joked she enjoyed the parades especially as she "loves a man in uniform".

Cllr Clear said: "I think you can tell I have loved it, it has been a once in a lifetime opportunity to be your mayor and it gives me great pride to have represented the wonderful city of Winchester and the district, I will cherish the memories."