Wrexham Mayor Unveiled At Guildhall Ceremony

Councillor I. David Bithell MBE was appointed the new Mayor of Wrexham this evening at an official ceremony at the town’s Guildhall.

Cllr Bithell, who is currently the Deputy Mayor, will serve as Mayor of Wrexham for 2013-14.

He follows Councillor Ian Roberts, who has carried out the role along with his wife Hilary, the Mayoress of Wrexham since 2011.

The ceremony began with Councillor Neil Rogers proposing the election of Cllr Bithell, and his wife Virginia as the new Mayor and Mayoress of Wrexham.

Cllr Bithell, who has represented the Stansty Ward since 2007, was told by Cllr Rogers that ‘your life is about to change over the next 12 months’.

Cllr Rogers said: “This year will be different for both of you. For the first time in your life you will not be in control. So slow down and enjoy it.

“We are all proud of your achievements and wish you the best of luck.”

The councillors all voted in favour of Cllr Bithell and his wife taking over the position of Mayor and Mayoress of the town.

Cllr Bithell thanked the coucillors and the staff at Wrexham County Council for their support and work, alongside Cllr Roberts and Mrs Roberts for their work over the past few years.

Cllr Bithell said: “I will continue the traditions of the previous Mayor.

“Virginia and I are delighted to see so many here, and I’m sure the next year will provide us with happy memories.”

The main charities the new Mayor and Mayoress will be supporting over the next year will be Nightingale Hospice and Hope House.

Cllr Bithell also offered a special thanks to the children and staff at Rhosddu and Wat’s Dyke CP primary schools for their entertainment at ‘half time’ as the Mayors exchanged robes.

The role of Deputy Mayor and Mayoress was passed to Councillor T. Alan Edwards and his wife Mrs Glenys Edwards.

Whilst the mayoral roles are largely ceremonial, in addition to attending formal civic events an average mayoral year will see the mayor attending over 400 engagements.

Since starting their position as Mayor and Mayoress in 2011, Cllr and Mrs Roberts have attended over 1000 engagements, and have travelled thousands of miles in the process.

Cllr Roberts is the first person in Wrexham to stand two terms as Mayor since 1947 and 1948.

In his final speech, Cllr Roberts recounted some of the highlights he and his wife had experience over the past 24 months.

Cllr Roberts said: “Myself and Hilary wish you every success and hope you enjoy it as much as we did. Hilaray and myself have greatly enjoyed the past 24 months. Infact those keen in local history, this last occurred in Wrexham in 1947/1948, the same year as London hosted the Olympics. Welcoming the Olympic Torch here was one of the highlights of our year.

“We have met 1000s of people who have ranged in ages from newborns to the oldest. We have also met people from all over the world. With over 1000 engagements I would never have been able to cope without all the help. Its been lovely. Thank you to my wife Hilary.”

Speaking to the new Mayor he said: “If I could give one piece of advice it would be to be yourself and enjoy every minute of it.”