The new Mayor for Weston-super-Mare
Cllr Mark Canniford has now retired from the office of Mayor and been replaced by Cllr James Clayton, who was elected as Mayor of Weston-super-Mare at a virtual Mayor Making meeting on May 5th. The Mayor will use his year to promote Weston and Youth provision.
The office of Mayor is steeped in tradition and ceremony. The insignia of the mace, robes, and chains of office, connect the present day with history and act as a symbol of continuity. The modern Mayor has a central role in representing the Council and the people, as the Town’s First Citizen. The Mayor can come from any class, gender or ethnic background and is elected from among the councillors who are themselves elected by the people of the town.
The role is strictly non-political and representative of every section of the community. It is particularly focused on cultivating a positive image of the town and enhancing the well-being of its citizens.
The many engagements undertaken by the Mayor act as a link between the various groups and organisations in the town. The Mayor takes the Council’s message out into the community and works towards achieving the 5 pillars of the Town Council Strategy 2020-2030. Equally, the Mayor can share the views and concerns of the community with the Council. More information can be found on WsM Town Council’s website
The new Mayor Cllr James Clayton said: “I have lived in Weston-super-Mare for twenty years and have five children who were born in Weston, and go to college and schools locally. I have been a councillor now for 8 years alongside working full time. We have a great town with great people doing so many wonderful things it is an honour to represent the Town in the capacity of Mayor”.
Cllr Roger Bailey is now deputy Mayor.
The Mayor now has his own Facebook page