The Mayor of Brent said he wants to use his position to “unite communities” in the region as he welcomed his counterparts from across London to a civic service.

Cllr Arshad Mahmood, who is serving for this municipal year, invited several other London mayors to Brent Civic Centre to showcase his chosen charities’ work.

He is fundraising for Sufra NW London, a food bank and kitchen, and READ Foundation, which finds school places for disadvantaged children.

“I was delighted to welcome so many people to my civic service, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with all my colleagues and charities to capitalise on the many strengths, attributes and talents they have,” he said.

“In a time of uncertainty for many in Brent, I hope to use the office of mayor to unite our communities.”

The event was hosted by Carolyn Downs, chief executive of Brent Council, and was attended by faith and community leaders from across the borough who echoed Cllr Mahmood’s message of unity.