THE Conservative Group on Bradford Council has nominated Councillor Zafar Ali to be the district’s next Lord Mayor.

Cllr Ali (Con, Keighley Central) said he was “honoured and privileged” to be chosen for office.

Councillor Simon Cooke, leader of the Conservative Group, said the role of Lord Mayor came with a significantly increased workload since the removal of the position of deputy Lord Mayor, something the group was pressing to have reinstated.

He said: “Councillor Ali has worked very hard in his ward and I know that he will deliver the same enthusiasm and work ethic to his time as Lord Mayor. We also know that he will maintain the dignity of the office and be an exemplary first citizen for the Bradford district.

“My colleagues and I are delighted for Councillor Ali and trust he will thoroughly enjoy his year in office.”