New mayor prepares to don his robes

The new mayor of Lancaster will officially don his robes at a special ceremony on Friday May 11 in the Ashton Hall.

Coun Andrew Kay will take over as the Right Worshipful the Mayor of the City of Lancaster from Coun Roger Mace in a centuries old tradition.

Coun Kay was first elected to the city council from 1995 to 1999.  He was elected again in May 2007 to represent the Bulk ward, and has served on the city council ever since.

Born in Brookmans Park Hertfordshire, Coun Kay grew up in Bracknell, Berkshire, where he attended Windsor Grammar School.

In 1972 he came north, choosing Lancaster University for his studies and graduated with a BA (hons) degree in philosophy and religious studies.

He decided to make Lancaster his home and worked in various seasonal jobs on Morecambe promenade and as a psychiatric nurse at Lancaster Moor Hospital from 1977 to 1980.

1n 1980 he returned to Lancaster University to study to become a social worker, qualifying in 1982.

He has since worked as a social worker and family support worker, initially for Cumbria and then Lancashire County Council, before retiring last month.

During his mayoral year he will be supported by his deputy mayor, Coun Claire Cozler.

The Mayor’s chosen charities for his year in office are St John’s Hospice and Lancaster & Morecambe City of Sanctuary.

Reflecting on becoming mayor, Coun Kay said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to serve as mayor. It is such honour and privilege for me and I look forward to meeting the many members of our diverse community during my year in office.”

Following his installation, one of Coun Kay’s first public engagements as mayor will be the traditional Mayor’s Sunday Service at the Priory Church at 11.30 am on May 13, to which all are welcome.