Montgomery Mayor elected for a second term

Cllr Rob Harper took office as Mayor for a second year’s term at the official Montgomery’s Mayor Making ceremony.

Cllr Harper spoke about his first year in office and all the opportunities “to promote this glorious, wonderful, beautiful thriving town and everybody within it”.

He recalled the international visitors who came to the Town Crier competition, and celebrated his work with the Lingen Davies Cancer Fund - a fantastic local charity and a glorious set of people to work with. An impressive £6,550 has been raised for the charity during the year.

Cllr Harper thanked the Town Clerk; his Deputy, Cllr Claire Weston; and all his council colleagues. He referred those present to the Mayoral board on the Town Hall wall, and the achievements of those named, and explained what an honour and privilege it was to join their ranks.

The Mayor took the Declaration of Office and invited everyone to Civic Sunday which will be held on Sunday, June 29. Divine Service at St Nicholas’ Church will follow a parade from the Town Hall.

Cllr Harper announced that his Deputy would again be Cllr Weston and his chaplain would be The Rev. Paulette Gower. Mark Corbett Weaver and David Corbett Weaver were reappointed as Sergeants at Mace, with fellow freeman Michael Davies acting as a mace bearer at this ceremony.

Meanwhile, Sue Blower has retired from her role as Town Crier, and she was thanked for her years of public service with a gift of flowers. She was invited up to the stage so that all of those present showed their appreciation.

Sue said that it had been a “pleasure and a delight” to serve as Town Crier, and she already misses the role. She thanked the community and Council for their support, and encouraged anyone interested in becoming the next Town Crier to come forward.

After the formal proceedings and a blessing from The Rev Paulette, everyone was invited to share drinks and a variety of canapés made by chef, Sam Morgan, and the team at the Dragon Hotel.

Montgomery Town Council meets on the fourth Thursday of each month, except August and December. Committees of the council meet at other times. Council and committee meetings are open to the public, and the meeting details and agendas are posted on the council noticeboard (between the Spar and chip shop) and online.

PICTURES by Peter Davies.