The annual Mayor Making ceremony, a highly anticipated event in Colchester's civic calendar, will take place on Wednesday, 24 May 2023, and residents are invited to follow events on the council’s YouTube channel.
The traditional ceremony, held at Colchester Town Hall, will see all councillors in their robes processing to the Old Library to formally vote for the new mayor and deputy mayor.
This year, Cllr John Jowers will be sworn in as Colchester's 190th mayor, with his wife, Mrs Sue Jowers, serving as mayoress. Cllr Jowers will be the first mayor of Colchester to swear allegiance to King Charles III. The new deputy mayor will be Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell and her mayoress will be her daughter, Jessica Scott-Boutell.
During the ceremony, the new mayor will declare his theme for the year and announce the charities that will benefit from fundraising activities during his tenure.
Following his election as mayor, Councillor John Jowers will take the Mayoral Oath, receive the robe and chains of office and make a short speech of thanks. Councillors will then be invited to elect Cllr Scott-Boutell as deputy mayor, who will then receive her chains of office and robe.
After the ceremony, councillors will adjourn to the Council Chamber to approve membership of this year's committees and panels, hear nominations for chairmen and deputy chairmen, and discuss other items of council business.
The mayor-elect, Cllr John Jowers, said: “It is a matter of great personal pride and an immense honour for me to become the first person to take the oath as mayor of the City of Colchester and to swear allegiance to the King.
“The role presents a tremendous opportunity to engage with diverse communities throughout the city and surrounding area. I am eagerly anticipating all of the upcoming events and the positive impact we can make in the months to come, as we continue a Year of Celebration to commemorate our modern city status.”
The Town Watch will also be present to welcome guests, including representatives from Colchester Garrison, the new mayor's nominated charities, and other civic dignitaries.
Residents are advised to follow the ceremony live on the council’s YouTube channel rather than attend in person, due to space limitations in the Old Library
For more information on the mayor and civic events, please visit www.colchester.gov.uk/mayor
Page last reviewed: 17 May 2023