Picture gallery: New mayor for Saffron Walden
The mayor making ceremony took place in Saffron Walden Town Hall on Saturday. Picture: Megan Ridgewell. - Credit: Archant
Saffron Walden has a new mayoress after she took over the civic role from her husband at the traditional mayor making ceremony on Saturday.
The mayor making ceremony took place in Saffron Walden Town Hall on Saturday. Picture: Megan Ridgewell. - Credit: Archant
Sandra Eden was chosen to succeed outgoing mayor Keith Eden when members of Saffron Walden Town Council gathered in the town hall dressed in full ceremonial robes.
Cllr Eden said she was looking forward to her year in office, which will include high-profile events such as the Tour de France arrival and Saffron Walden Carnival.
She said: “Saturday went wonderfully well – I was a bit nervous beforehand but it was a lot of fun.
“It was an historic occasion because there has never been a husband and wife following each other as mayor before.”
The new mayor has chosen St John Ambulance as her charity for the year.
“Every event, whether it’s the carnival, bonfire night or the Christmas lights switch-on, they’re there. I think people sometimes take them for granted so that’s why I want to highlight the fantastic work they do.”
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Money raised will go towards providing first aid courses for all ages in the town hall and Golden Acre Community Centre.
“If just one person who is taught first aid saves another person’s life then it will all have been worthwhile,” Cllr Eden added.
Reflecting on his year in office, Cllr Keith Eden said: “It was a privilege to hold the position of mayor. What it does is give you a pretty unique insight into the town and a better understanding of how it works.”
Over £7,000 was raised for Cllr Eden’s charity appeal, Saffron Walden Opportunity Playgroup, and a cheque will be presented later this month. The charity supports children aged 0-5 years with special needs and disabilities and their families.
Cllr Eden added: “This is an attractive town full of generous and kind people – as it shows because I was able to raise so much money from my mayoral events.
“It was an enjoyable year but also a knackering one!”
The mayor making ceremony concluded with a procession from the town hall to St Mary’s Parish Church.
