New Lord Mayor and Sherriff of Norwich named for 2024

The ceremony at City Hall saw Vivien Thomas, a Labour councillor, sworn in as Lord Mayor of Norwich.

Mrs Thomas was first elected in 2010 after moving from Nottinghamshire with her husband Vaughan - who was also Lord Mayor between 2019 and 2021. 

The new Sheriff is Sirajul Islam, who works closely with Norwich Central Mosque and Islamic Centre and was recognised as a "shining light in his community".

The pair will represent the city at hundreds of events throughout the year, such as formal openings and charitable activities. 

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Mrs Thomas said: "There are stark inequalities facing this city with people struggling with issues including housing, poverty and social isolation. There are many organisations and individuals working hard to close these gaps and I look forward to bringing more recognition to the work of these groups. 

"I hope to shine a light for young people on why they might consider a path into politics and how they might go about it."

Sirajul Islam, left, and Vivien Thomas (Image: Norwich City Council)

Mr Islam, the new Sheriff, moved to Norwich from Bangladesh nearly 30 years ago and is "heavily involved" with the city's Muslim community. 

James Wright, the former Lord Mayor, said: "Sirajul is open and welcoming, and uses his faith to promote community cohesion. He does all of this with a smile on his face.

"He has all of the necessary qualities to represent the city and its citizens."

Mr Islam and Mrs Thomas will raise money throughout the year for their chosen civic charity, the Benjamin Foundation.

The charity works on tackling youth homelessness and bullying in schools and supports families in crisis.

The meeting also saw Mike Stonard re-elected as Labour leader of Norwich City Council, which is under no overall control.