A potential heir to Kingston’s mayoral throne was welcomed in to the world on April 26.

Weighing in at 8lb 5oz, little Rishan Ganesha Yoganathan may prove to be a political heavyweight, if he follows in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.

He was born at Kingston Hospital to former Kingston councillor and deputy mayor Rohan Yoganathan, and his wife Claire, 31.

Mr Yoganathan’s father Councillor Yogan Yoganathan, 64, also spent time as mayor from 2005-6 and has served as an elected councillor since 2002, so council life runs in the blood.

Coun Yoganathan was at the hospital for the birth, eagerly awaiting the arrival of his only child’s first born.

Coun Yoganathan said: "I don’t see why he can’t be mayor. I was mayor, and Rohan was deputy mayor, so for my first grandson it is possible.

"I’m sure he will have the same knack as young Rohan. He did an excellent job and I’m pretty sure that skill will be passed on to my beautiful grandson.

"It is a child we waited a long time for so we are very proud. We all cried at the hospital, out of happiness, and we are looking after him beautifully."

Mr Yoganathan , 32, who lives in Surbiton, said: "It was a fantastic experience. We had a natural birth and it was a lovely surprise for the family, because we did not know we were having a boy.

"I think it’s probably my dad’s wish that we have four or five, but my number is maybe two or three.”

Coun Yoganathan said he hoped his grandson would also go on to have a boy to continue the family name.