Weymouth & Portland Borough Councilhas elected its new mayor for the forthcoming 12 months.
Kate Wheller was formally inaugurated at last night’s (29 May) mayor making ceremony at the Riviera Hotel in Weymouth.
Cllr Wheller took over the reigns from Ray Banham who had served as mayor over the last 12 months.
Cllr Christine James was elected as deputy mayor.
Cllr Wheller said she felt extremely proud to accept the role. During her speech she thanked councillors for their support, reflected on her role as the borough council’s Social Inclusion brief holder and explained her plans for the year.
Cllr Wheller said: “It is an honour and a privilege to be mayor of Weymouth and Portland.”
“During the course of the year I will be meeting many groups, clubs and organisations. I want to encourage them to work together and share their skills and experience so that they all become part of the bustling and vibrant life of Weymouth and Portland.”
Her consort for the year is husband Michael Wheller and chaplain is the Rev. Deb Smith.
Cllr Wheller has selected the Friendship Club as her chosen charity for the year.
A civic service will take place on Sunday 13 July at 6.30pm at All Saints Church, Wyke Regis. The choir of Wyke Junior School will also provide entertainment.
Cllr Wheller announced a writing competition for the children of Weymouth and Portland. She will be sending out a letter to all our local schools outlining the rules. She said: “We would like our children to tell us in their own words why they like living in Weymouth and Portland.”
Ray Banham said it had been an honour and a privilege to have been mayor and wished Cllr Wheller well in her new role.
He said: “It has been a year when it has been an honour to meet some great people doing fantastic things. From royalty to the engine of this borough, the different organisations, clubs, societies and charities and their volunteers, both young and old doing fantastic work.
“The borough now has a new mayor, councillor Kate Wheller. She has been my deputy for the past year and has been excellent. She will be joined by her consort Mr Michael Wheller. I wish them both all the very best for the coming year and I hope they enjoy every moment.”
The next Weymouth & Portland Borough Council Full Council meeting will beon Thursday 5 June at 6.30pm in The Ocean Room at Weymouth Pavilion. At the meeting councillors will decide who will sit on and chair the council’s various committees.