Community Stalwart is Mayor for Second Time

A May Bank councillor who has served communities for 20 years is looking forward to his second term as Mayor of Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Members voted for Councillor John Cooper to take on the historic role once again at Wednesday night’s Annual Council meeting which normally takes place in May but was delayed due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Councillor Cooper, who was Mayor in 2008/09, will represent the borough at civic events during the remainder of the municipal year and has chosen to raise money for the Alice Charity which supports disadvantaged and vulnerable families in Newcastle. He will also chair Full Council meetings.

The former engineer, from Wolstanton, is mulling over ideas on how he can best fulfil his ceremonial duties during these uncertain times but believes his patient and forgiving nature will help him craft a way forward. He has chosen Angela – his wife of 40 years – as Mayoress and grandsons Isaac Nixon, 20, and Sean Cooper, 19, as High Constables. Councillor Ken Owen is Deputy Mayor.

The traditional Mayor making ceremony was revised to follow Covid-19 guidelines, with residents being able to watch it live on the Council’s YouTube channel and some councillors taking part via Zoom.

The 75-year-old father of four, who is chair of Bradwell Lodge, said: “It’s difficult to put into words but it’s an absolute honour and privilege to represent this loyal and ancient borough for a second time. I feel extremely proud. It certainly feels a bit different to be Mayor this time around but I’m up for the challenge and will do my best, especially when it comes to raising as much money as possible for charity. I’ve chosen Alice after hearing about all the good work they’re doing. I also feel it’s more important than ever to support a smaller charity like this.”

Retiring Mayor Simon White and Consort Gary White were thanked for their services during the past year.
Records show that there has been a Mayor in Newcastle-under-Lyme since 1318.