Cllr Stephen James has been elected to be the new mayor of Malmesbury after moving to the town ten years ago. He will now lead the town council after stepping up to serve his community in 2023.
“It’s been a real privilege to be voted in as the town’s next mayor and I’m proud to represent the town and its residents,” Cllr James said.
“I came here a decade ago so that one of our children, then 13, could attend a really good school (Malmesbury School) and it was such a wonderful decision. We are a vibrant and active community and I’m proud to be part of it.”
Cllr James became a town councillor just over two years ago, he was encouraged to get involved by friends having been widowed. His late wife had been very active in the community in several different roles.
“It has been a journey of discovery to understand what role the town council plays in our community. Many people don’t realise what we do and what we cannot do and that, sometimes, responsibilities lie with the unitary authority and not with the town council.
“My aim over this next year is to represent the town positively locally and in wider Wiltshire and beyond. I plan to lead the town council mindfully and encourage councillors to make the most of the team and the wonderful town hall staff. We must seize opportunities to make long-term improvements for the town where we are able.
“I hope to provide a focal point for the community as well as help promote Malmesbury as much as I can.”
Cllr James enjoyed a long career in the Army and is the father of three children and two grandchildren. He’s now retired and feels able to give back time to the town he made his home with his family. He’s already chosen his charities of the year – HEALS Malmesbury and the Malmesbury & District Food Bank.
The role of elected mayor in Malmesbury is seen as critical to democracy in the town and dates back to 1887 when elected local councils were created.
Cllr James will be actively involved with many planned events in the town and one challenge in August and early September will be to complete, in three stages, a 130 mile walk from Malmesbury to Kingston Upon Thames as part of the Athelstan 1100 celebrations.
Cllr James will be leading a team of Malmesbury walkers to mark the celebration of Athelstan’s coronation. Athelstan, who is buried in Malmesbury, became King of Wessex and Mercia 1100 years ago in 924 and he was crowned in Kingston Upon Thames in 925.
* Malmesbury’s new mayor is Cllr Stephen James. Picture taken by Barbara Leatham.
Article from Scott Media
