Liverpool’s newest Lord Mayor has been sworn during a ceremony at the Town Hall.

Councillor Malcolm Kennedy was elected to the council in 1998 and has stepped down as cabinet member for regeneration after seven years.

Liverpool City Council says the former teacher, who has become the ‘First Citizen of Liverpool’, will act as a “focal point for the community, promoting the city and forging national and international links”.

Cllr Kennedy was born in Gateshead and moved to Liverpool in 1974. His two sons Robert and Alan were born at Mill Road maternity hospital and live in the city.

His wife Liliana, a Spanish citizen who speaks fluent English, Spanish and Romanian, will be the Lady Mayoress during his year in office. They will both look for advice from Victor, Liliana’s son, who has a master’s degree in international relations.

Cllr Kennedy says: “It was my passion for The Beatles that brought me to Liverpool in the first place, but thanks to my wife I now know a lot more about Spanish and Romanian music than I ever thought possible!

“I am so glad I came to Liverpool as a young student and even more glad that I stayed. I am as proud as any Liverpudlian to say I come from Liverpool.

“However, I have to be honest and admit that when it comes to football I am neither red nor blue but remain committed to the black and white stripes of Newcastle United!”

Cllr Kennedy will be sponsoring four charities during his year as Lord Mayor. They are:

• The Owen McVeigh Foundation – which supports families affected by leukemia. It was set up by Mark and Jo McVeigh in memory of their son who passed away due to the condition. It provides children and their families with amazing occasions to look forward to such as VIP concert experiences, celebrity meet and greets and family holidays.
• The ADHD Foundation – which was established by the council and became a charity 10 years ago. It supports over 2,000 families per year and delivers training to teachers, nurses, doctors and social care professionals.
• The Choir With No Name – which runs choirs for people who have experienced homelessness and marginalization. Based at Bluecoat, it provides the support needed by members to help them get back on their feet.
• All Together NOW – which publishes a free newspaper with a circulation of 100,000 providing advice to people affected by ill health and disability.

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