Halton’s new mayor has pledged to use his time in office to help young people  from challenging backgrounds achieve their potential.

Cllr Kevan Wainwright was recently installed into the role with wife Andrea becoming mayoress, taking over from Cllr Val Hill and her consort Cllr Stan Hill.

The mayor of Halton is a ceremonial position which changes annually - with each incumbent being given the chance to choose specific charities to back during their time in office, with money being raised by a series of events over the course of the year.

Cllr Wainwright has chosen the Halton Foundation and will be raising money to help young people from low income families, care leavers and those with disabilities or learning difficulties to access bursaries.

They can then purchase the technology, books, and tools they need to help them through their vocational or academic journey or pay for the travel to get to their placements, college or work.

He said: “I am already engaging with the borough's colleges and businesses, asking them for their support to achieve this aim and to invest in our young people - who could well be their next employees."

He added: “There will be a number of fundraising events throughout this year that people can sponsor or support via donations to the Mayor's Charity Fund and/or buying a table at the events, which are open to all."

With a background in construction and engineering, Cllr Wainwright works for Ineos and is a shop steward for Unite the Union. He was elected to the Hough Green ward in 1998. A keen motorcyclist and Everton fan, he has two children, three grandchildren and a stepson.

Wife Andrea has worked for the last 30 years as a speaker, trainer, author, and coach helping managers and leaders in organisations to have difficult conversations about sensitive subjects such as the menopause, mental health and suicide prevention.

She has been involved in dog rescue for almost 20 years, setting up her own charity and helping to re-home more than 1,000 dogs.

Anyone who wishes to support their fund-raising efforts can visit.