As Hull’s 107th Lord Mayor prepares to hand over the chains and robes to his successor, Councillor Steve Wilson has reflected on his extended time in office, that began in May 2019.
With almost 600 civic engagements under his belt and new Civic Crown awards handed out, Councillor Wilson has been very busy, despite a large proportion of the role taking place during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Amongst the many duties, the Lord Mayor has heavily supported veterans and attended many of the events including visits to the veterans breakfast clubs and communities outside their homes on VE day.
The Lord Mayor has also supported the young mayor including the presentation of new chains of office and robes.
In June 2019 the Lord Mayor visited Hull’s twin-town of Freetown, Sierra Leone to meet with their mayor and other dignitaries, as well as visiting a school and seeing the ongoing partnership work with the Freetown Society and council. Councillor Wilson also met with the British High Commissioner of Freetown in July 2019 when he visited Hull.
Lord Mayor, Councillor Steve Wilson said:
“I have had a fantastic time being Hull’s Lord Mayor and would like to think I’ve given the role a bit of a new lease of life.
“I’ve had the privilege of being involved in some amazing experiences, but what has astounded me most during my time in office has been the incredible community spirit I have seen across the city.
“During the pandemic especially, neighbours have got to know each other, good deeds are being done and people who maybe once felt alone, now have a whole new circle of friends and family.”
The Lord Mayor also introduced the Civic Crown awards, recognising people who have made a difference during his time in office. 128 awards have already been given to people including local writer Russ Litten, historian Robb Robinson, Rooted in Hull’s Adrian Fisher, city tour-guide Paul Schofield, brave young Max Clark and city boxer Tommy Coyle. More details on everyone given awards can be found on Twitter @LordAward.
Lord Mayor continued:
“The Civic Crown awards have been my chance to thank some of the wonderful people I have met over the last 18 months. Some in the public eye and some behind the scenes working hard to make our communities fantastic places to be.
“I have another 36 awards to hand out once restrictions are lifted and I’m looking forward to this rounding off my year.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone I have worked with and met during this time, it has been a real honour to serve as Kingston Upon Hull’s Lord Mayor and I would like to wish my successor a wonderful future term.”
The 108th Lord Mayor will be elected following the Full Council meeting this Thursday (19 November).
