Hertsmere Borough Council’s annual meeting yesterday (Wednesday 17 May) saw the passing of the mayoral chains from Councillor John Graham to Councillor Chris Myers. Councillor Richard Butler was also welcomed as the new Deputy Mayor.

The new Mayor and Deputy Mayor were inaugurated at a ceremony at Hertsmere Borough Council’s offices in Borehamwood. The ceremony was attended by members of the council, local dignitaries, and members of the public.

Councillor Myers, who represents the Potters Bar Furzefield ward, said he was “honored and humbled” to be appointed Mayor of Hertsmere. He pledged to use his time in office to promote the borough and its many attractions.

Councillor Graham, who has served as Mayor for the past year, thanked everyone who had supported him during his time in office. He said he had been proud to represent Hertsmere and to have raised money for Peace Hospice Care.

He said: “It has been an honour to serve as Mayor of Hertsmere over the past year; a year that has seen hardship such as the cost of living pressures, the continuing war in Ukraine and the death of the longest-serving monarch and I was able to reach out to the local community to listen to their concerns and answer questions.

“But through these hardships I’ve been able to see first-hand the activities of individuals and local groups which make a difference to the community, such as visiting foodbanks, warm spaces and the summer meals projects.

“I will cherish my time as Mayor and wish our new Mayor the best.”

Councillor Myers’s term of office as Mayor of Hertsmere will last for one year. During this time, he will represent the borough at a variety of events and engagements. He will also be responsible for raising money for charity.

New Mayor Cllr Myers is looking forward to his year as Mayor during which he will be raising money to support ADD-vance ADHD and Autism Trust and The Albert Kennedy Trust.

Cllr Myers said: “I am delighted to take on the role of the Mayor of Hertsmere. The day of my inauguration, 17 May, was also the International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, Lesbophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBLIT) and I am proud to be Hertsmere’s first openly gay Mayor.

“I look forward to strengthening my connections with the community and seeing how I can make a difference in Hertsmere.”

If you would like to invite the Mayor to attend one of your events, please contact the Mayor’s Secretary on 020 8207 7477 or email mayors.secretary@hertsmere.gov.uk.