Royston’s new mayor aims to ‘increase town’s profile’
Royston's new mayor, Cllr Victoria Hulstrom-Allen, receives her chain of office from outgoing mayor Bob Smith - Credit: Archant
Royston’s new mayor is promising to guide the town council wisely in the next 12 months after taking office on Monday.
Cllr Victoria Hulstrom-Allen was unanimously voted in to replace Bob Smith at the first meeting of the new-look Royston Town Council.
She was re-elected to represent Heath ward in last month’s elections, having initially joined the town council in the 2010 ballot.
“Bob Smith has set the bar high, but I’m proud to have this opportunity to represent the town and its council, and to continue working to increase the profile of Royston,” she said.
Cllr Hulstrom-Allen’s mayoral consort for the year will be her husband, Daniel.
A former girl guide, she has selected Royston and District Girl Guiding Association as her mayoral charity, and members were present to witness her inauguration.
“Guiding provides a safe space for girls and young women in Hertfordshire to grow and follow their interests, from Rainbows (ages five-seven) to Trefoils (guiding for adults),” she said.
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Handing over the mayoral chain was Mr Smith’s last action as a councillor, as he decided not to stand for re-election after eight years on the council.
“I have been honoured to serve as mayor, and have been amazed by the extent of community spirit and talent I have witnessed during my year in office,” he said.
“The number of community volunteers working quietly in the background, and I thank everyone who has supported me throughout the year.”
Cllr Smith’s two mayoral charities, children’s cancer charity CLIC Sergant and the Royston Town Mayor’s Community Chest Fund, will each receive half of the £3,709.20 he raised during the past 12 months.
Monday’s meeting saw the council make a presentation to Mr Smith and his wife, Maureen, in recognition of their service to the town.
Palace ward councillor Robert Inwood will serve as deputy mayor in the coming year.
