THE tables were turned on the county's civic dignitaries when they swapped places with their chauffeurs for an event organised by the Kent Messenger Group.

This year, 24 Kent mayors and 28 drivers took part in the role-reversal fun, with the Mayors driving their staff to the KM headquarters building at New Hythe Lane, Larkfield, where they met the company chairman Edwin Boorman.

The drivers were entertained to a three-course meal with drinks, while the Mayors had a modest alcohol-free afternoon tea.

Several of the Mayors entered into the spirit of the event by not only driving the drivers but wearing the chauffeur's uniform too.

This was the fourth year the "role reversal" has been held. The idea originated when Mr Boorman was the High Sheriff of Kent and got to know many of the county's mayors and their drivers. He launched it as a way of saying "thank you" to them for their work.

West Kent senior editor Ron Green said: "This was intended to be a one-off event after the chairman's year as High Sheriff. But it worked wonderfully well - so well, that it has become a very special annual event.

"It's good fun and it's possibly a unique gesture of appreciation for the work done by the county's Mayors and their chauffeurs."

The Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Morel D'Souza drove three chauffeurs to Larkfield: Derek Wickwar, Gordon Cossins and John Colbran,

Mr Wickwar, who has been driving Mayors of Maidstone around for 15 years, said: "It was absolutely wonderful and such a kind thing for Mr Boorman to do.

"It's the only time of year I get to be driven. It was very nice to be able to relax and chat amongst the other drivers because we all know one another."

Roy Lewis, who swapped places with the Mayor of Tunbridge Wells, Cllr David Wakefield, said: "It was a novelty to sit in the back of the car for a change - I could get used to being treated as a mayor.

"It was a very enjoyable day and the food was excellent. I'd like to thank the Kent Messenger Group for the special treat."

Derek Johnson, chauffeur to the Mayor of Swale, Cllr Mick Constable, said: "The Mayors look after us very well. The tables are completely turned - we have a lovely roast beef meal with all the trimmings and a drink or two, whilst the Mayors get sandwiches and a cup of coffee.

The Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling, Cllr Jill Anderson, who drove her chauffeur, Robert Taylor, to the event, said: "The drivers seemed to have a fantastic day and the Kent Messenger was clearly very generous.

"I think it is an excellent idea, really super, because the driver works very hard over the year and it is nice to have the opportunity to say thank you."