Darren Byford to Become New Mayor
Cllr Darren Byford is set to become the new Mayor of Wakefield district on Thursday, May 23. He will assume the role during the Council’s Annual General Meeting and Mayor Making ceremony. Currently serving as the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Byford will be formally appointed and sworn in during the meeting, marking the beginning of his tenure as the First Citizen of the district.
A Ceremonial Role with Deep Community Roots
The role of Mayor in Wakefield is a ceremonial title bestowed by the Royal Charter, positioning the Mayor as the First Citizen of the district. The Mayor presides over full council meetings and represents the district in various ceremonial capacities.
Joining Cllr Byford in his new role will be his consort and husband, Peter Davis. Additionally, Cllr Maureen Tennant-King has been nominated for the position of Deputy Mayor, with her consort being her husband, Terry King.
Background and Contributions of Cllr Darren Byford
Cllr Byford has served as a Councillor for the Horbury and South Ossett ward since 2016. His previous roles include Deputy Cabinet Member and Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth. He expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating,
“It is an absolute privilege and honour to take up the role of Mayor. I will use my year to continue to advocate for our district and to highlight the many great things that are happening here. I look forward to meeting the many fabulous people, organisations, and charities that make our district so special.”
Cllr Byford’s involvement in the community is extensive. He is a trustee of The Senior Citizens’ Support Group and Horbury Churches Together. Additionally, he is active within the local British Legion, Horbury Village Partnership, and a founding member of the Friends of Horbury’s Parks.
Deputy Mayor Maureen Tennant-King
Supporting the new Mayor will be Cllr Maureen Tennant-King, who will assume the role of Deputy Mayor. She has represented the Featherstone ward since 2016 and has been a member of the Planning and Highways Committee for eight years, currently serving as its Deputy Chair. She is also a member of the Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee and represents the Council on the Wakefield Sight Aid Board.
Cllr Tennant-King is heavily involved in community initiatives. She helped establish the Sharing is Caring Featherstone Uniform Bank and the Hungry Holidays project. Additionally, she supports local Food Banks and friends’ groups, and assists The Clothing Bank and Airedale Children’s and Baby Bank.
A New Era for Wakefield District
Cllr Denise Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council, expressed her support for Cllr Byford’s appointment, stating,
“I am delighted that Darren is set to become our new Mayor. He is a passionate advocate for our district and will do a great job with support from Peter and Maureen.”
The Mayor Making ceremony will take place in the Council Chamber at County Hall, starting at 11:30 am. The event will be broadcast live on the Council’s YouTube channel.
Mayor’s Charity Appeal 2024 – 2025
During his term, Cllr Byford will support the Memory Action Group (MAG), a peer support group for people living with dementia and their carers. Additionally, he may allocate some of the funds raised to other local charities he visits throughout his mayoral year.
Final Points
The appointment of Cllr Darren Byford as the new Mayor of Wakefield marks the beginning of a new chapter for the district. With his extensive experience and deep community involvement, Cllr Byford is poised to make a significant impact. Supported by his consort, Peter Davis, and Deputy Mayor Maureen Tennant-King, the new leadership team is well-equipped to advocate for and celebrate the Wakefield district.
