New Mayor of Preston
Today, Wednesday 18th May, Councillor John Collins is appointed as the new Mayor of Preston.
As the civic figurehead for the city, the new Mayor will attend over 200 community events and represent Preston at civic occasions.
Councillor Collins will be the 689th Mayor of Preston – a position which dates back to 1327.
A lifelong Prestonian and former history teacher, Councillor John Collins is looking forward to his year in office as Mayor. He said:
“There’s so much history and heritage to the position of Mayor and, as a former history teacher, it’s a dream come true to be the new Mayor of Preston.
“Preston is a great city with lots going on and I’m really looking forward to attending a wide variety of community events. As Mayor, I’ll also be representing Preston at a whole host of occasions and that’s something I feel very fortunate and privileged to do.
“Fundraising is also a big part of being Mayor and my Mayoral chartities this year are Heartbeat and Blood Bikers. During the year, I’ll be ably assisted by two very dear friends, Mrs Mary Brade and Mrs Joan McGinty, who will be taking turns to accompany me as Mayoress. I am very grateful to them and also to my friends and colleagues for all their support in becoming Mayor.”
Councillor John Collins Fact File:
- Born in Preston in 1943
- Councillor for Moor Park Ward since 2000
- Councillor John Collins is a former Leader of Preston City Council between 2003 and 2007
- John graduated from the University of Cardiff in 1965
- John then had a thirty year career as a teacher, teaching at Ramsey Grammar School, Isle of Man; Duffryn High School in Newport; and Brownedge St. Mary’s High School, in Bamber Bridge from 1979 to 1997.
- As you’d expect from an ex-history teacher, John is a keen reader and history buff.