Today, one of Liverpool’s most successful Lord Mayors will hand over the ceremonial chain to one of the city’s biggest political figures, reports City Editor David Bartlett

THERE is no doubting Steve Rotheram has been one of the most successful Lord Mayors Liverpool has ever had.

In his year as first citizen, he raised a record-breaking £600,000 for good causes and attended more than 2,000 events.

The Liverpool FC fan was also a strong figurehead for the city when it came together for the 20th anniversary of Hillsborough, using part of the money raised to release a record in memory of the 96 who lost their lives.

He lists meeting the Queen twice, attending the Paul McCartney concert at Anfield, meeting presidents, the Prime Minister, and ambassadors as highlights of his year.

But he said: “I think the local visits have been the funniest. Some of the school visits I’ve done sent me away with a great high.

“The schools I have visited made me very proud of our kids.

“I’ve really enjoyed it. I never doubted for a second it’s the best thing.”

And, despite being so busy during the year, he says he has probably seen more of his wife, Sandra, than before because she has accompanied him to many of the events.

Although his children Hayley, 13, Samantha, 11, and son Stephen, 17, are looking forward to spending more time with their father.

From the outset of his year in office, he made clear the most significant date in his diary would be April 15 – the 20th anniversary of Hillsborough.

“I worked to do as much as I could as the first citizen to ensure it was marked in the right way.

“I’m pleased 30,000 turned out to Anfield and both the Cathedrals were full for the memorial services.”

Although he was at Anfield for the day, he says he would have liked to have seen with his own eyes the way the city came to a standstill as a mark of respect for those who lost their lives.

“It showed what I think was the real message from the day – that we will never forget the 96.”