Town Mayor

The Mayor of Knutsford (Town Mayor) is elected annually from amongst the councillors at the Annual Town Council meeting in May (also called the Mayor Making). The Mayor serves as both Chairman of the Town Council and the ceremonial figurehead for Knutsford

The title Mayor of Knutsford was first established in the late 13th century when the town was granted a charter however it became extinct and little is known of the early  mayors; the title was revived in 1974 when the Town Council was formed.

THE ROLE OF THE TOWN MAYOR

As first citizen of Knutsford, the Town Mayor fulfils an ambassadorial and ceremonial role representing the town. The mayor is invited to attend around 150 events every year, ranging from opening fetes and new shops, attending community events and representing the town at events such as the North West in Bloom awards.

The Town Mayor also chairs meetings of the Full Council and by virtue of office may attend and vote at all council committee meetings.

Each year the Town Mayor also raises funds for chosen charities by hosting a number of community fundraising events and an annual Civic Ball.

Cllr Peter Coan
Town Mayor 2023/24

COUNCILLOR PETER COAN

Peter Coan was elected Town Mayor in May 2023.

‘My objectives for the year ahead – I will continue to work closely with our Town Clerk, our Civic Events officer and indeed all officers. I will work alongside our Councillors, and you, the residents of our wonderful town, to make things as best they can be.

I will make a start on our new ten year corporate plan, bring back into use 60 King Street, support vulnerable adults and families by trying to keep the Stanley Centre open, fight for adequate medical provision and dentistry access for all, protect, improve and maintain public green spaces, and maintain and hopefully improve our leisure centre. I’ll attempt to address the provision of affordable starter homes in Knutsford, and protect our towns heritage. Some of these may be unachievable, or pipe dreams, but let’s, together, try!

The first charity I have chosen to support this year is Knutsford GROW. Knutsford Grow is a charity whose Coordinators bring together two groups of people for their mutual benefit.

On one hand, they tend the gardens of people living in Knutsford who, by reason of their age, infirmity, or disability, are unable to do so themselves, or pay for gardening services. On the other, they offer opportunities for volunteers of all abilities, to deliver a community service, in a supportive environment, with access to training.

This charity reduces stigmatization, social isolation, they are unique, in that their workforce is made up of a mixture of the able-bodied, disabled, those with adult learning or mental health difficulties, and those attempting to start or return to work following unexpected life events. And, they have been doing this for over 20 years!

Another good cause I’ll continue to support is Mike Houghton’s Men’s Shed initiative. Research has shown the negative impact of loneliness and isolation on a person’s health and wellbeing. Recently more evidence has come to light that shows loneliness and isolation can be as bad for our health as obesity and excessive smoking. Surveys from mental health charities are finding that millions of people report feeling lonely on a daily basis.

Sheds are akin to garden sheds – a place to pursue practical interests at leisure, to practice skills, and enjoy making and mending. They’re all about social connections, friendship building, sharing skills and knowledge, and of course laughter.

Many Sheds get involved in community projects – restoring village features, helping maintain parks and green spaces, building things for schools, libraries and individuals in need, repairing stuff and include activities such as woodworking, metalworking, repairing and restoring, electronics and model building, Sheds typically attract older men, but, many have younger members and women are particularly welcome.

Sheds should be considered vital to our wellbeing and I already have good indications of support’.