UK Burnham gives first speech as Labour Party leader in Kent

Britain's Andy Burnham visited Gravesend in Kent

to deliver remarks on his first engagement as the leader of the

country's governing Labour Party.

Andy Burnham said

"I am setting out a new direction. It's wonderful to be able to be here with you

on this really special day for me. I've had a long and winding journey

to this moment in my life, but it is a big moment in my life. I know many of you,

I'm seeing friends and faces from the past in this room because I've been in this party,

well , I joined it 40 years ago and so many people have helped me on my way

to this particular moment.

What I can say is I'm not going to let this job change me. I'll remain on the ground.

I will remain close to people. I will listen to what they say.

I will put us back in touch with ordinary people. I will give it my all."

Burnham was officially declared leader of Britain's governing Labour Party Friday

promising to bring hope to the British people and purpose to the floundering government.

The former mayor of Greater Manchester will take office as prime minister next week

after he secured nominations from 379 of 403 Labour lawmakers in the House of Commons.