Councillor Mike Storey CBE, was elected to the city council in 1973 and has served the local authority continually for more than 35 years.

He was leader of the council from 1998 to 2005 and spearheaded the city's successful drive to become European Capital of Culture 2008.

During his time in charge he also played a major role in delivering big projects which have transformed the city such as Liverpool One, the Arena and Convention Centre and the cruise liner terminal.

Councillor Storey said: "I was privileged to be Leader of the Council during an exceptional time in the city's history and I am now hugely honoured to be its next Lord Mayor.

"This is without doubt the greatest city in the world, and to become its First Citizen is a tremendously proud moment both personally for me, and for my family.

"Anyone who knows me, knows my passion for Liverpool and its people, so I will use my year in office to be an ambassador for the city and spread the word about the amazing renaissance it is enjoying."

Councillor Storey, 60, is head teacher at Plantation Primary School in Halewood, and wants children and young people to benefit from this year's Lord Mayor's charity.

Councillor Storey is married to Carole and they have a 16 year old daughter, Rachel.

He was awarded an OBE in 1992 for services to local government, and a CBE in 2002 for his regeneration work.

He is a member of the boards of Liverpool Vision, The Bluecoat and ACC Liverpool (Arena and Convention Centre).