A lively procession marched through the streets of Oldham today to celebrate the new Mayor being sworn into his role.

It was announced earlier this week that Councillor Zahid Chauhan OBE will be representing the borough as its new Mayor.

The Labour and Co-operative councillor, who represents the Alexandra ward and is also a serving GP, was the Deputy Mayor under Elaine Garry during her tenure over the past year.

The Oldham Times: The new Mayor, Councillor Zahid Chauhan OBEThe new Mayor, Councillor Zahid Chauhan OBE (Image: Oldham Council)

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Now he is taking over the role, today (Sunday, May 28) signified an important day in the Oldham calender as the new Mayor was sworn into his role during a Civic Service at Oldham Parish Church from 10.30am.

There, he was officially invested as honourary church warden for his year in office.

Prior to the special ceremony, a procession of live music and Oldham's dignitaries, as well as members of the public, marched behind the Mayor through the town centre.

Councillor Zahid was seen wearing the traditional Mayoral robe and chains whilst on the march.

The Oldham Times: Members of the Royal British Legion led a part of the processionMembers of the Royal British Legion led a part of the procession (Image: Oldham Council)

The new leader of the Council, Arooj Shah, followed shortly behind the Mayor as well as other councillors and officials.

While bagpipes and church bells rang out to mark the occasion, veterans, navy and military personnel from the Royal British Legion also marched in unison for part of the procession.

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