Shrewsbury's new mayor Beverley Baker will be arts champion
Shrewsbury's new mayor has been appointed and has vowed to champion the arts for young people.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Beverley Baker, who has worked in theatre for decades, spoke of bringing creativity to the town after she was sworn in by Shrewsbury Town Council last night.
She kicked off her year in office by announcing her chosen charities as The Ark and The Hive, both of which help vulnerable people
The mayor-making, which was attended by members of the public, saw former mayor Jon Tandy bid a fond farewell as he handed over the mayoral chain, and offer his full support to Councillor Baker in her new role.
The event, which was held at Theatre Severn, was also attended by former mayors, and traditional signings took place alongside prayers led by Reverend Mark Chadwick of St Chad's.
Town council members heartily endorsed Councillor Baker's appointment, and spoke of her dedication to theatre groups.
In proposing her appointment, Councillor Andrew Bannerman, said: "Beverley is a highly accomplished actor, singer, and seamstress.
"Behind the scenes she has been mother, nurse, and mender of all things.
"I know she will make a loyal, vivacious, and most enterprising Mayor of Shrewsbury."
Councillor Tandy was also thanked by leader of the town council, Alan Mosley.
He said: "Only a year ago I was stood here as Jon became Mayor, he's had an interesting year to say the least.
"He has truly done justice to the role he longed to occupy and has excelled in excess and beyond any reasonable expectation.
"Both himself and Diane have championed the elderly and the vulnerable and stood up for their rights, and he has also stood up for local business owners.
"He is both highly respected and acclaimed and we thank you for all you have achieved."
Councillor Tandy appeared visibly moved, and Councillor Baker admitted he will be a "hard act" to follow.
She said: "I sat down to write this speech and by 1pm this afternoon I still had a blank page in front of me.
"I know what I want to achieve but I also take on the role of Mayor with a great deal of trepidation.
"Despite moving around a lot, Shrewsbury is my birthplace and my home town, and like many others I have returned here."
