The formal election of Mayor takes place during the annual Meeting of full council at the town hall, usually during the month of May.  

The term of office lasts for one year. 

A Deputy Mayor is appointed to assist the Mayor throughout the year and it is usual for the Deputy to succeed to the Mayor the following year. 

Diplomacy

The Mayor is required to preside over full meetings of the Council, and as first citizen of the borough, offer an official welcome to visitors to the town, and act as official host on occasions when there is provision of civic hospitality. 

Promoting the Town
The Mayor plays a key role in promoting the town and can play an important role to encourage business and commerce to the area.  The Mayor also helps to promote many local initiatives, which can attract shoppers and tourists from a wider area. Throughout the year the Mayor attends many events organised by local organisations.

Events
The Mayor has links with many local organisations to which the Mayor is President of around 15 local organisations, involving attendance at Annual General Meetings and giving support throughout the year. During the year, the Mayor attends numerous engagements including many annual civic and community events. 

As well as attending at various charity events within the community, the Mayor runs a Mayor’s Charity Appeal during their term of office in support of their nominated charity/ies. 

The newly appointed Mayor selects a Mayor’s Chaplain who traditionally offers spiritual guidance to the Mayor, and takes part in the Annual Civic Service which traditionally takes place at St Elphin’s Parish Church.

Related documents:

Mayoral_engagement_form_2011.doc