Southwark votes in first openly gay mayor

The first openly gay mayor of Southwark, south-east London, has been elected.
Councillor Jeff Hook, whose full title will be The Worshipful The Mayor of Southwark, will take on the role for the 2009-10 period with his civil partner as his official consort.
Speaking to PinkNews.co.uk, Mr Hook said that although he is the first openly gay mayor in Southwark, he is not the first in the UK. Robert Crossman who served as Mayor of Islington in 1986-7, is believed to hold that title.
Regarding the importance of public figures’ openness about their sexuality, he said: “I’d like a situation where it’s not an issue. A gay person can ride to the top as much as anyone else.”
Mr Hook, the representative for Rotherhithe, reportedly took on tough competition in the run-up to being elected. See Southwark votes in first openly gay mayor
PinkNews.co.uk

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