The new Mayor of Shrewsbury has been elected for the coming year.
Councillor Phil Gillam was officially sworn in as Mayor at the annual meeting of Shrewsbury Town Council last night. [MON]
The mayor-making ceremony, which was held in The Walker Theatre, saw Councillor Gillam take over the role as civic leader from outgoing Mayor, Councillor Peter Nutting.
Councillor Nic Laurens was also appointed as Deputy Mayor.
Councillor Gillam said his main aim as Mayor is to promote the wonderful and varied businesses and charities in Shrewsbury.
He said: “As a Shrewsbury man born and bred, it is great privilege to be elected as Mayor of Shrewsbury, and I am aware of the proud tradition that I will be following from all those who have held the post before me. I am looking forward to the next twelve months and will do everything I can to fly the flag for Shrewsbury.”
He also took the opportunity to thank former Mayor, Peter Nutting and the Mayoress Julie, for the work they had done for the town over the last twelve months.
“Peter and Julie have done a tremendous job of representing Shrewsbury during his term of office. It is now my responsibility to carry on the tradition of highlighting the fabulous town we have here both within our community and beyond.”
The incoming Mayor also outlined his fundraising plans for the year.
“During my Mayoral year, I will be supporting The Samaritans of Shrewsbury, a charity which helps to provide emotional support to anyone experiencing some form of emotional distress, or who is struggling to cope or is at risk of suicide in a society that can all too often feel like a lonely and disconnected place.
“There will be a range of fundraising events over the course of the next twelve months, and I have to confess that as an unapologetic Beatles fan, my first major event will be the Shrewsbury Beatles Weekend on 20 – 22 September. It promises to be a great weekend and will hopefully help to start my Mayoral fundraising with a great time for everyone.”
Councillor Gillam will be officially sworn in at a civic service held at St Chad’s Church on Sunday 9 June.
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, High Street, across the Square, Market Street, Shoplatch, 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 the town. The congregation will then be invited to share the toast.
ENDS/