Gedling Borough Council this week appointment of its new Mayor and Youth Mayor at the annual council meeting at the Civic Centre in Arnold.
Councillor Sandra Barnes has been named as the new Mayor of Gedling and has announced that she will be supporting the Nottingham Hospitals Charity, helping to raise funds for premature babies at Nottingham City Hospital, for the upcoming year.
Mayor Sandra Barnes said: “It’s a great honour to be chosen as Mayor of Gedling. I’m excited to get out and meet people across the borough, support the fantastic work happening in our communities, and shine a light on the premature baby charity at the local City Hospital that helps so many people in difficult times. I’m really looking forward to the year ahead.”
In her address to the chamber, Mayor Barnes thanked the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Kyle Robinson-Payne, for his excellent service and charitable efforts over the past 12 months. He raised £20,174.85 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association to support vital research, as well as MNDA Nottingham, which meets at Mapperley Plains Social Club and provides support to local people diagnosed with the disease.
Outgoing Mayor, Councillor Kyle Robinson-Payne, said: “During my year as Mayor, I have been met with so much kindness and selfless generosity across Gedling. I leave this role full of admiration for our borough, a place defined by compassion, community spirit and people who always look out for one another. Gedling is truly a special place, and I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to serve the place I call home.”
The Youth Council also re-appointed Lydia Yates as Youth Mayor. Lydia will once again represent the voices of young people in Gedling and work alongside the Mayor and council officers on youth-related initiatives throughout the year.
Youth Mayor, Lydia Yates, said: “I’m proud to continue as Youth Mayor and to represent young people across Gedling for another year. I want every young person to feel listened to, valued and included, whatever their background or experience. To me, leadership means speaking up for others and making sure every voice has the chance to be heard.”
Councillor Kathryn Fox, Portfolio Holder for Life Chances and Vulnerability, said: “Lydia has been a brilliant Youth Mayor over the past year and I’m delighted that she has been re-elected by the Youth Council and will be continuing in the role. She has shown real dedication to representing young people across the borough, and I know she will continue to be a passionate and effective voice for them in the year ahead, including being on the Greater Carlton Neighbourhood Board. I look forward to working with her again.”
