Harrow Borough Council has appointed a new mayor, despite tensions during the ceremony this evening.

Councillor Nana Asante was sworn in as mayor of the borough for the municipal year of 2013/2014 at a meeting at the civic centre.

But members of the Labour group did not participate in the meeting due to tensions over the appointment of the newly elected mayor, who is a member of the new Independent Labour group.

Before the appointment of councillor Asante, councillor David Perry attempted to read out a statement to the full council, but was stopped by the outgoing mayor Nizam Ismail.

Members of the council also paid tribute to mayor Ismail, who during his time in office attended more than 600 engagements representing the people of Harrow.

Councillor Ismail thanked the whole council for its support and helping him raise nearly £20,000 for his chosen charity Age UK Harrow during his year as mayor.

Conservative councillor Camilla Bath was voted in as deputy mayor for the year ahead.