Cllr Carolyn Watson-Merret appointed Mayor of Rugby

Cllr Watson-Merret was appointed Mayor at Rugby Borough Council's annual meeting on Thursday (19 May).

Cllr Maggie O'Rourke was appointed Deputy Mayor.

Cllr Watson-Merret has represented the Admirals and Cawston Ward since 2021, having previously represented the Dunsmore Ward from 2015 to 2019.

She has nominated Rugby Foodbank as her Mayoral charity.

The foodbank provides emergency food and support to residents in crisis, part of a nationwide network supported by the Trussell Trust which works to combat poverty and hunger.

Cllr Watson-Merret has chosen integrating Rugby town centre with its villages, farms and rural communities as the theme for her term of office.

"As a farmer's daughter who loves a strong sense of community, it makes sense to keep Rugby town centre and its rural communities talking to one another," Cllr Watson-Merret said.

"I am looking forward to visiting many of the borough's communities during my year as Rugby's first citizen, while also raising awareness and support for Rugby Foodbank, which sets a shining example of community spirit.

"And as a big rugby fan, I am also looking forward to being Mayor of the birthplace of the game when next year the world celebrates the 200th anniversary of William Webb Ellis inventing the game at Rugby School."

Anyone interested in supporting the Mayor's charity can call (01788) 533523 or email the.mayor@rugby.gov.uk

For more information on Rugby Foodbank, visit the charity's website: http://rugby.foodbank.org.uk