New Mayor to be sworn in on Wednesday 24 May

During the last 12 months the current Mayor of Kirklees, Cllr Jim Dodds has attended 260 engagements as part of his duties and in his fundraising for the Royal British Legion. Reflecting on his year as mayor he said.
“I’ve had a wonderful and inspiring time in my role as mayor, and have been ably supported by my wife Carol, we have met some wonderful people and been truly humbled by the support my charity has received.   To date, we have raised in the region of £60,000 and there is still more coming in.’
“I would like to thank everyone who has invited us to attend their events, or supported my charity.  Their efforts are truly appreciated.’
“I’ve had the pleasure of attending some wonderful events including most recently the Queen’s birthday salute in York and the Freedom Parade in Dewsbury, I’ve also enjoyed welcoming Royal visitors such as the Duke of York when he was opening Huddersfield University’s new building and taking part in community events such as the Jamaican Independence Day celebrations and Opening the food and Drink Festival.’
“It’s been lovely to meet residents both young and old; from meeting school children singing happy birthday to the Queen in the Piazza to greeting nonagenarians (people aged 90) at a special tea party to mark her Majesty’s 90th Birthday.’
“The Mayoress and I have judged school painting competitions, attended awards ceremonies, had tea and cake with so many different groups of residents at their garden parties, rowed in a Dragon Boat Race and even opened a local dog grooming parlour called Alice in Groomingland.  I have played in the Mayor’s Team against an Emmerdale XI at Cricket and was the weak link in my team at Bradley Golf Club. So as you can see it’s been a varied and interesting year which has taught me a lot about the wonderful people of Kirklees.  We’ve enjoyed every minute of it – it’s been both a privilege and an honour to undertake the role.’
“I would like to wish the next mayor Cllr Christine Iredale,  and her consort and husband Robert, a fantastic year in office.”
The incoming Mayor Cllr Christine Iredale and her Deputy Mayor Cllr Gwen Lowe will be sworn in at a Mayor Making Ceremony at 12.30 pm on Wednesday 24 May at Huddersfield Town Hall.  Everyone is welcome to come and watch, and the audience is asked to be seated by 12.20 pm.  The audience entrance is at Princess Street, or Corporation Street for level access.
Christine’s charities for the next year will be Dementia UK and The Alzheimer’s’ Society.