The new Lord Mayor of Leicester says his ascent into office has been an "amazing journey".

Councillor Colin Hall, who represents the New Parks ward, received the chains of office at a civic ceremony at the Town Hall last night.

In front of an audience of dignitaries, MPs, members of the public and fellow councillors, he said his rise to position of Lord Mayor had been an "incredible journey" and thanked his family for their support. He also announced he would be raising funds during his year of office for a new centre of excellence for dementia care at Leicester General Hospital.

His "Forget-Me-Not" appeal will help deliver a specially-designed ward to cater for the needs of patients with dementia, a secure sensory garden for patients and visitors, and enhanced training and support for nursing staff, carers and families.

A video was played to the assembled guests, showing the work the hospital does to treat dementia patients.

He said: "I am really proud to be able to launch such a worthwhile appeal and I look forward to working with my committee and staff from the Leicester Hospitals Charity. We hope to put on some great events and continue the proud tradition of previous civic appeals."

Along with his appeal, the Lord Mayor announced details of his health and wellbeing aims. He will be walking to as many city centre engagements as possible, providing healthy, low fat options at all events he hosts and playing an active role in promoting the city's 3x30 fitness pledge.

He has already received the support of Rosemary Conley who supervised an initial fitness check and set training goals, as well as giving him a pedometer and low-fat cookery books.

He said: "Too many people of my age – who perhaps have not led the healthiest of lifestyles in recent years – think it's too late to do anything to change habits."

Taking the role of Lady Mayoress is Eleanor Davidson.

Coun Hall was first elected to Leicester City Council in 1991 as councillor for the Belgrave Ward. In 2007, he was elected as one of three councillors for New Parks.

He was born and raised in Leicester and attended Inglehurst and Rushey Mead infants schools, Northfield House Junior School and the City of Leicester School. Coun Hall graduated from Essex University in 1984 with a degree in Government and has worked as a parliamentary assistant, senior administrator and medical record clerk. His father, the late Coun John Hall, was a city councillor and his mother Marilyn Hall was Lady Mayoress during 1999-2000.

Councillor Rob Wann was elected Deputy Mayor, while Councillor Abdul Osman was elected as High Bailiff.

Outgoing Lord Mayor Roger Blackmore said it had been an "honour and a privilege" to serve the city.

For more about the Lord Mayor's Appeal, or about how to invite the Lord Mayor to an event, call the Lord Mayor's Office on 223 2000, e-mail or visit:

lord.mayor@leicester.gov.uk www.leicester.gov.uk/lordmayor