Ipswich councillor Stefan Long to become one of youngest mayors in nearly 200 years with Pat Bruce-Browne to become deputy mayor

A Suffolk town is set to appoint one of its youngest mayors since the role was created in 1836.

The majority Labour group on Ipswich Borough Council has chosen councillor Stefan Long, aged 36, for mayor.

Mr Long, who was born and brought up in Ipswich, has worked in engineering at the Port of Felixstowe for two decades.

“I have been a borough councillor for Rushmere Ward - where I live - since 2022, and to become mayor of the town I love is a huge privilege,” he said.

“I look forward to engaging with young people, and meeting many of the hundreds of people who support the life and well-being of the town through its many amazing communities, charities, businesses and organisations.”

Councillor Pat Bruce-Browne, who moved to Ipswich in 2014 after she was born and raised in London, has been selected for deputy mayor.

She said: "An important part of my life is running the Ipswich Reggae Choir, which I founded in 2017.

"I am also a DJ specialising in rare groove, reggae and R’n’B.

“Having brought my enthusiasm for community to Whitton as a councillor, I very much look forward to becoming a part of the civic life of the whole town."

Ms Bruce-Brown has spent her life working with people of various challenging needs and she continues to 'advocate for equality and inclusion'.

The full council will vote to confirm the new roles at its annual general meeting on May 14.

The current mayor, Elango Elavalakan, and his deputy, Lynne Mortimer, will stand down.

The first mayor of Ipswich was Benjamin Brame in 1836 who was a solicitor.