Cllr Rob Comber has been elected as the new town mayor of Wokingham.
The annual appointment of the new town mayor for Wokingham took place on Sunday, in a ceremony that has changed very little over the decades.
Town councillors, dignitaries and invited guests came together for an official ceremony at Wokingham town hall as Cllr Rob Comber was elected to the post for 2024-2025.
Outgoing mayor, Cllr Sally Gurney, spoke about her time in office.
She said: “This has been one of the hardest speeches I’ve ever tried to write, not because I don’t know what to say, but because I can literally talk for hours about all the amazing things we’ve done, the places we’ve been and especially the incredible people we’ve met.
“As I think back over the last year, my heart is filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
“My time serving as your mayor has been a privilege beyond measure, and I’m profoundly thankful for the trust and support you placed in me.
“If this year has shown me one thing, it’s that the community spirit in Wokingham runs deep and true.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my time has been the chance to see the incredible work of our local charities and organisations first hand.”
Cllr Comber revealed he has chosen to support SHARE Wokingham as his charity for the year.
The deputy town mayor for the forthcoming term will be Cllr Louise Timlin.
Cllr Comber said: “What an honour to be taking office this year, Wokingham town council’s 50th anniversary,
“Over these 50 years, Wokingham has grown significantly, and I can testify after having lived, worked, and brought up my family here, that it has always been a friendly and welcoming place.
“I’d like to help ensure it remains so for the next generation.
“Since becoming a councillor, I have been both astonished and humbled by the sheer number of people involved with local charitable groups, supporting both individuals and the environment, and have become aware of the number of residents who are in need.
“A year ago, I did not know whether I would have the time, the commitment, or the drive to be Mayor.
“Now I know I do, and I am honoured to have been elected as Mayor of this wonderful town.”
Elsewhere, new mayors have been appointed in Earley and Woodley.
Councillor Mike Smith was elected mayor of Earley at last week’s annual town council meeting. Councillor Nicola Brock was appointed deputy mayor.
In Woodley, Cllr Juliet Anderson has been elected as Woodley town mayor, while Cllr David Bragg was elected as Woodley town deputy mayor.
