Telford and Wrekin mayors vow to leave party politics aside
New and returning mayors throughout Telford and Wrekin are promising to put party allegiances to one side and bring their towns together.
Wellington’s new mayor Anthony Lowe praised the “determination and energy” of predecessor Cindy Mason-Morris, who attended more than 160 engagements during her term.
Reappointed Newport mayor Peter Scott said he saw the role as leading and acting as ambassador for the town, while Stephen Reynolds – re-elected as mayor of Oakengates – said it could also be used to forge links with other towns.
Conservative councillor Lowe was elected unanimously at Wellington Town Council’s AGM, its first meeting after the May 2 election, when Labour member councillor Mason-Morris stood down.
He said: “I would like to say a few words about the outgoing mayor. They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and you have set a hell of a pace. I don’t think I’ve got either your determination or your energy. You said you want to promote our local businesses and support our local voluntary groups and organisations around Wellington. That will be my approach too.
“You have my assurance I will be putting all party allegiance behind me while in office, and to some extent that will be a massive relief.”
Councillors heard Ms Mason-Morris had attended 165 events as mayor, as well as Wellington Festival events and town council meetings, raising £3,000 for homelessness charity Maninplace and Shropshire Cat Rescue.
Ambassador
Councillor Reynolds, who will be mayor for Oakengates Town Council for a second year, said: “You are an ambassador for both the town and the town council when you’re mayor, and that includes visiting places outside it, and outside Telford and Wrekin, to promote it.
“I’ve visited Bridgnorth, Ellesmere, places like that. It can help forge links that way.
“I’m a Labour member, and Oakengates Town Council is Labour-controlled, but you have to put your views to one side in the mayor’s job. You are representing all the people.”
Councillor Scott added: “For me being mayor is less about opening shops and going to functions as about being chair of the town council. It is an opportunity to bring members together non-politically for the benefit of our residents.
“I am aiming to make us ‘Team Newport’ with no politics attached. If I am seen getting my hands dirty others will join in.
“I would recommend the role but only if seriously committed to the council and the town. It should not be a long service award.”
