Cambridge votes in first transgender mayor

The city of Cambridge has become the first place in the UK to have a transgender mayor.

Jenny Bailey, 45, who has had a sex swap operation, has been sworn is as the civic leader of Cambridge city council in a ceremony.

The Liberal Democrat councillor underwent sex change surgery in her 30s and has two children, aged 20 and 18, from a marriage.

Ms Bailey, who has stated that she is honoured to have been selected for the office by her fellow councillors, has decided that her partner will be the Cambridge city mayoress.

Former councillor Jennifer Liddle, 49, met Ms Bailey while they were both undergoing hormone replacement therapy in preparation for a sex change.

"I entered local politics because I believe in public service and because I wanted to make a contribution to the wonderful city we live in," Ms Bailey stated. "I am honoured that my fellow councillors have now chosen me to be mayor."

Rob Hammond, chief executive of Cambridge city council, added: "I'm confident Ms Bailey will be a great ambassador for Cambridge. It is the council's firm view that someone's gender and sexual orientation has no bearing on their suitability to hold public office. What matters is the person's ability to do the job and to do it well and that is how they should be judged."

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Date:25/05/2007 12:04:10