Malmesbury Mayor Cllr Stephen James is being supported in his civic duties this year by a new Mayor’s Cadet – Rosa Clough.
The 14-year-old Malmesbury School pupil was chosen for the role after applying to the Town Council.
The role involves supporting Cllr James at a number of civic events, and Rosa has already been alongside the Mayor for his Robing Ceremony and the Mayoral Service in Malmesbury Abbey. She will also accompany him during the Malmesbury Carnival procession, the November Remembrance Day service and at Christmas late night shopping.
“Rosa is a great addition to the civic team, and I am very happy to have her supporting me at various events in the town,” said Cllr James.
“Giving the Mayoral Cadet a public position encourages young people to get involved, and provides the Town Council with the opportunity to get some input and also feedback from younger people.”
Rosa is a keen member of Chippenham Sea Cadets, TS Tiger. Some of her fellow cadets were applying for the role with the Mayor of Chippenham, which encouraged her to apply for Malmesbury.
“My head of year at Malmesbury School suggested I go for it,” said Rosa. “I have to represent the Mayor, which means I am with him for community events. I get to talk to people and shake people’s hands, and the Mayor is really nice.”
Rosa’s mum, Anna – who is one of the town’s Warden and Freemen – said she was very proud of Rosa, whose ambition is to join the Navy. “I was chuffed to bits that she wants to represent Malmesbury because my parents come from here, and we have all our history in the town.”
Article by Jo Smyth, Word Worker
