Harrow has elected its new mayor for the 2019/20 council year.

Cllr Nitin Parekh, who represents Edgware ward, was unanimously approved by Harrow Council last week.

He was congratulated by both sides of the chamber, with Labour and Conservative members praising his service to the borough.

“I can’t think of a single person who is better-suited to this role than you,” said former Harrow Council leader Cllr Sachin Shah.

“You are the exact definition of what a mayor should be, and you’ll be the best we’ve ever had.”

Cllr Paul Osborn, leader of Harrow Conservatives, agreed that Cllr Parekh will be a “good mayor” and championed his “impact on the community”.

He was put forward by Cllr Ajay Maru – who noted his positive social work in the borough – while Cllr Christine Robson seconded the nomination.

Cllr Parekh said: “It is an honour to be appointed as Mayor of Harrow and I thank councillors on both sides for trusting me.

“I will provide the energy, enthusiasm and commitment that this position demands.”

The new mayor was born in Aden, Yemen, before moving to Mumbai, India, and then onto London in 1986.

An economist, he has worked in finance for several years and has served as a councillor since 2014.

“I want to take our multi-cultural and vibrant community forward – I want people to feel proud to call Harrow their home,” he added.

He served as deputy mayor last year, working alongside outgoing first citizen Cllr Kareema Marikar.

His successor is Cllr Ghazanfar Ali, whose nomination was also unanimously supported.