NEWBURY TOWN COUNCIL HAS A NEW MAYOR!
Newbury Town Council’s annual Mayor Making ceremony took place on Sunday 11th May 2025, celebrating the election of the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor in front of local dignitaries, community organisations, and their friends and families.
Cllr David Harman was duly elected as Mayor of Newbury for the 2025/26 municipal year, with Cllr Sarah Slack elected to serve as Deputy Mayor.
The ceremony was held at the Corn Exchange, Newbury, with over 200 guests in attendance. Proceedings began with a formal procession through the Market Place, led by the Town Marshal and Macebearers, before the official ceremony commenced inside the Corn Exchange. Following the event, a Civic Service was held at St Nicolas Church, with refreshments served in the Church Hall.
Outgoing Mayor Cllr Andy Moore opened the event with a reflective speech on his year in office. A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of a Long Service Award to retiring Town Marshal Barry Digby, who has served Newbury Town Council with distinction for 23 years.
In his inaugural speech, the new Mayor, Cllr David Harman, expressed enthusiasm for the year ahead and announced his chosen charity for the year: Berkshire Youth. He emphasised the importance of supporting young people, stating, “The vibrancy and future of our town lies squarely with our young people. Their energy, their creativity, their fresh perspectives are not just welcome; they are essential.”
The Mayor also reaffirmed his commitment to environmental sustainability, sharing his desire to enhance Newbury’s green spaces, plant more trees, and promote biodiversity for the benefit of both the environment and community wellbeing.
Cllr Harman was formally invested by receiving the chain and badge of office, and his wife, Rosalind Harman, was appointed Mayoress. Cllr Sarah Slack was also formally invested as Deputy Mayor of Newbury.
Musical accompaniment was beautifully provided by Trinity School’s MelodiX, a talented vocal ensemble from Years 7–9.
The Civic Service was led by the Revd. Joy Mawdesley, the Mayor’s newly appointed Chaplain.
Contact:
Jo Aylott, Civic Manager mayor@newbury.gov.uk
