IT will be a case of second time around for the first time in Swindon Council's civic chamber when Mike Bawden is named mayor.

Coun Bawden is expected to become mayor in a ceremony at 2.30pm tomorrow the first time in the Swindon council's history that a councillor has held the job twice.

He was originally mayor of Thamesdown Council in 1982-3.

In a replay of 1982, Coun Bawden has asked Swindonian George Gramlich to return to be mace bearer at the mayor-making ceremony.

"I am thrilled to be taking up this role for the second time," Coun Bawden said.

"It means a lot to me to have George accompany me as mace bearer on this occasion as he did 26 years ago.

"I am certainly looking forward to a busy year ahead and hope to meet many new faces across the borough in my role as mayor."

Current mayor of Swindon, Ray Fisher, said that Coun Bawden had devoted most of his life to the town.

"I would like to wish Mike every success in his role as mayor of Swindon."

Coun Bawden was granted freedom of the borough in April in recognition of his work and achievements as an elected representative for Swindon for the past 36 years. His wife Joyce will take the role of mayoress tomorrow.

Coun Michael Barnes is expected to be named deputy mayor and deputy mayoress will be Sue Pye.

Schools, community groups or businesses holding events over the next year can invite the mayor to attend by contacting the mayor's secretary Carole Deamer on 01793 463599 or email cdeamer@swindon.gov.uk