Mayor of Buckingham confirmed for second term at formal ceremony

The Mayor of Buckingham, councillor Margaret Gately, has been confirmed in the role for a second year at the town’s Mayor making event following a unanimous vote from fellow councillors.

It was the first time in three years that the formal ceremony that confirms the Council’s choice as Mayor and Deputy Mayor of the Town was able to take place indoors due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Councillor Anja Schaefer, who has been on the council for a year and who lectures at the Open University, was appointed Deputy Mayor.

Councillor Margaret Gateley said: "It is a great honour to be Mayor of Buckingham for a second year. It was fantastic to be able to celebrate Mayor Making with dignitaries and Mayors from around Buckinghamshire and beyond, with fellow Councillors, members of community groups, family and friends.

“It was special to have the opportunity to recognise the service and contribution of different individuals and groups from our town through our awards and grants. My thanks to everyone who contributed to making this such a lovely evening."

The Town Council was joined by a number of dignitaries, including the Lord Lieutenant, Countess Howe, and High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, Debbie Brock.

Guests were entertained by Linda Watkins and Mike Moyse, and £150 was raised for the Mayor’s Charities 2022 - 2023, which this year are the Jedidiah Project and Buckingham Food Bank.

This year’s community awards were given to:

Honorary Freeman

Terry Bloomfield for 20 years of service to the town, as well as being a Councillor for many years, Terry was a key person involved with horticultural shows, managing the community centre and the Old Gaol Trust.

Friend of Buckingham

Mr. Chris Mullis for all his work in setting up and managing the Buckingham Support Network during lockdown.

Mr. Mikey Dyson-Smith for his morale-boosting work through the pandemic.

Mrs. Jenny Manning for her work on the Buckingham Railway Walk Volunteers Group.

Bard of Buckingham

Mr. Dean Jones, the first ever Bard of Buckingham, who carried on the role for two years

Arts and Sports Award

Buckingham Ukulele Group in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the local community through enhancing the cultural life in Buckingham.

Natural Environment and Climate Champion Award

Railway Walk Conservation Group in recognition of the exceptional and outstanding contribution to the local community through protecting and enhancing the environment.

Voluntary Community and Social Enterprise Award

Men in Sheds in recognition of the group’s continued support for men

[PICTURE: Prize Winners]