Shrewsbury has elected its new Mayor for the coming year, Councillor Jane Mackenzie.
Councillor Mackenzie officially took office at the annual meeting of Shrewsbury Town Council last night. [MON]
The mayor-making ceremony, which was held at The Museum & Art Gallery for the first time, saw Councillor Mackenzie take over the role as civic leader from outgoing Mayor, Councillor Ioan Jones.
Councillor Peter Nutting was also appointed as Deputy Mayor.
Councillor Mackenzie said her main aim as Mayor is to celebrate diversity and to recognise that whilst people all have differences, more can be achieved by working co-operatively.
She said: “I wish to celebrate our differences and by breaking down barriers between communities this will help to build a tolerant, vibrant community here in Shrewsbury.”
The incoming Mayor also outlined her fundraising plans for the year.
“I will be supporting a local charity this year and raising funds to support the work of Shropshire Recovery Partnership and Addaction to help raise awareness of a condition that affects people of all ages and social classes. Addaction helps people change their behaviour to become the very best that they can be and support people to make lasting changes in their lives,” she said.
Councillor Ms Mackenzie will now be officially sworn in at a civic service held at St Chad’s Church on Sunday. [MAY 21]
The service will start at 10am and will be preceded by a parade from the castle to St Chad’s, departing at approximately 9.35am, by way of Castle Street, Pride Hill, Shoplatch, Bellstone, St. John’s Hill and St. Chad’s Terrace, led by the Shrewsbury Brass Band.
Members of the public are welcome to attend.
Following the church service the traditional Loving Cup ceremony will take place at which the Mayor will be invited to drink from the Loving Cup and toast the Queen and town. The congregation will then be invited to share the toast.