Councillors took centre stage last night (Tuesday 19 May), as they elected the 53^rd and last Woking Borough Council-appointed Mayor of Woking, Cllr Rob Leach, during the official Mayor-making ceremony in the Council Chamber.

Born and raised in Devon, Cllr Leach has lived in Woking since the 1980s and is a long-standing member of the local community.

He brings extensive professional and voluntary experience to his new role and is looking forward to a year of civic engagements, meeting local people and celebrating the borough’s rich voluntary sector.

Before becoming a councillor for the first time in 2004, Cllr Leach enjoyed a varied civil service career and delivered freelance training within the public and private sector.

But it was his passion for local theatre that played such an important role in connecting him with the community when he first moved to Woking, providing both friendship and a creative outlet.

With the performing arts in mind, during his mayoral year, Cllr Leach will be supporting and raising funds for Woking Youth Theatre and Phoenix Cultural Centre.

Speaking about his chosen charity, Cllr Leach, said: “The performing arts have played a huge part in my life and I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact they can have on young people.

“Woking Youth Theatre and Phoenix Cultural Centre provide valuable opportunities for creativity, learning and personal development and I’m delighted to support them and raise awareness about the importance of the creative arts industry during my mayoral year.”

As a result of local government reorganisation in Surrey, Cllr Leach will be the last Mayor appointed by Woking Borough Council, marking a significant moment for the borough.

He added: “Woking is an asset to West Surrey and I am honoured to serve as the council’s final Mayor at such a pivotal time in its history. I look forward to meeting the inspirational residents who contribute so much to our borough.”

At the Mayor Making ceremony, Cllr Attia Aslam was appointed Deputy Mayor and will support Cllr Leach during his mayoral year.

Following approval by councillors, the council has applied to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to establish a Charter Trustee, ensuring that the Office of the Mayor and its civic traditions continue following the creation of West Surrey Council.

• Watch the official Mayor-making ceremony online.
• Follow the Mayor’s activities at www.woking.gov.uk/mayor or follow @wokingmayor on Facebook.