Harrogate's history celebrated in Mayor Making ceremony but now the serious work begins
Harrogate’s new mayor has been elected at a traditional Mayor Making ceremony at the AGM of Harrogate Town Council.
Councillor Viv Poskitt, who has lived in Harrogate for 30 years and represents the St George’s ward for the Lib Dems, was handed the Mayoral Chain by outgoing Mayor Coun Chris Aldred in an event which, though, perhaps, not quite as grand as in the days of Harrogate Borough Council, was an important moment for both the town council and the town.
Also elected was Councillor Chrissie Holmes, who represents the Starbeck ward for the Lib Dems, who becomes Deputy Mayor of Harrogate for 2026-27.
The ceremony was held at the Council Chamber at Harrogate Civic Centre which saw the last acts of Harrogate Borough Council before it was abolished in March 2023 as part of local government reorganisation.
Addressing the gathering of councillors, and mayors from other parts of the district, the new Mayor of Harrogate said she would dedicate her year to doing her bit to make life and living better for the people of the town.
With 25 years’ experience as a local GP and a professional background which includes work with North Yorkshire Police as a forensic medical examiner, Coun Poskitt, has a long track record of serving the community.
She is also known for her poetry, sense of humour and love of cycling.
As well as looking ahead to a packed calendar of ceremonial work and championing the town, the new Mayor has serious work ahead at the fledgling Harrogate Town Council which has strived to take on role since it was established 12 months ago.
Among other matters, Harrogate Mayor Coun Viv Poskitt, is Chair of Harrogate Town Council’s Neighbourhood Plan Group, which has taken over the reins from the Harrogate Town Plan Forum of shaping the town’s development and protecting its heritage in an era when the dominant player is North Yorkshire Council.
The Mayor Making ceremony was a celebratory, emotional and happy occasion, a time for family and friends and lining up for photographs.
Now the serious work begins for Harrogate Town Council