New mayor sworn in at Tatton Park ceremony
COUNCILLOR Barry Burkhill has been sworn in as the new Mayor of East Cheshire.
Now the borough’s number one citizen, who is a fan of medieval history, has pledged to highlight the good work of volunteers during his year in office.
He was sworn in at a ceremony at Tatton Park on Wednesday, May 22, alongside his deputy, Councillor Steven Edgar.
Coun Burkhill, who has represented Handforth for 38 years and is part of the Independent Group, was Mayor of Macclesfield Borough Council in 2007.
He said: “Although it has been totally unexpected to be asked to become mayor for the 2019/20 municipal year, it is nevertheless an honour and a privilege to represent the people of Cheshire East.
“These are difficult times and my wife, Sue, and I will be using the year ahead to highlight the prodigious voluntary work that is daily carried out throughout the borough.
“In particular, we look forward to visiting all centres which work with food banks and homeless people and support those of our number who face challenging times.
“I thank you all for your support and my wife and I hope to be very worthy successors to Lesley and David Smetham, the outgoing mayor and her consort.”
By tradition, both the mayor and deputy mayor are non-political roles, carrying out civic duties on behalf of the council and residents of the borough.
The mayor chairs meetings of Cheshire East Council and can use his or her casting vote, if required to do so.
Coun Burkhill also has an interest in music and geology and his wife Sue will be mayoress.