York’s next Lord Mayor has been chosen – and he’s a familiar face!
Meet our next Lord Mayor of York and his Sheriff.
Cllr Chris Cullwick will don the robes and chain for the 2023/24 mayoralty, it was confirmed at last night’s full council meeting.
It is his second stint in quick succession. Cllr Cullwick undertook the role in 2021/22, which was badly hit by pandemic restrictions.
During his time in the role, he took every opportunity to thank and support York’s key workers and all those who helped the city through the Covid challenges.
Cllr Cullwick has lived in York since 1984 and served as a Liberal Democrat councillor for Huntington and New Earswick since 2015.
He has been instrumental in establishing numerous initiatives in the city, including food banks, Street Angels, York Schools and Youth Trust (Yo-yo), Family Matters and the One Voice Trust network of churches.
Ordained in the Church of England for over 40 years, he has served most of this time in York, including ten years as a chaplain to the city whilst based at York St John University.
Cllr Cullwick has chosen Cllr Sue Hunter to serve as Sheriff, with her partner Nigel as Sheriff’s Consort.
Cllr Hunter, Lib Dem councillor for Westfield ward, was born in York and has lived in Acomb for most of her life. Sue runs the award-winning florist Floral Elegance.
Cllr Cullwick said: “The Lord Mayoralty of York is one of the oldest and most prestigious civic posts in the country, so it is a great honour to be nominated as the Lord Mayor of York, with my wife Joy as Lady Mayoress.
“There’s no denying that Covid impacted our previous year in office, but I am very proud of the work we were able to carry out in the city – be that fundraising for our chosen charities, thanking volunteers and communities or supporting the reopening of the city as it bounced back from the pandemic.
“I am looking forward to now continuing this work and supporting the city and residents, many of whom are facing a challenging time.”
Cllr Sue Hunter said: “I am honoured and grateful to have been chosen by Chris to join the civic team next year. I know that the role comes with a lot of responsibilities and big shoes to fill.
“I am very much looking forward to an enjoyable and eventful year in this historic office representing our city and promoting positive change.”