Chichester welcomes new mayor in historic ceremony

Councillor Rhys Chant proposed Councillor Quail for the mayoralty, with Councillor Ann Butler seconding the nomination. Following their endorsement, the new Mayor, flanked by Town Clerk Sam Tate and preceded by the ceremonial Mace, made a stately entrance into the Assembly Room. The room was packed with Civic Award winners, past mayors, Councillors, friends, and representatives of the wider Chichester community.

The outgoing Mayor, Craig Gershater, performed the traditional duty of investing the new Mayor with the Chain and Badge of Office, symbolizing the transfer of authority and responsibility. This age-old ritual emphasizes the continuity and stability of the Mayoralty to the City.

The first recorded Mayor of Chichester was Emery de Rouen in 1239, though historical records suggest the office dates back to at least 1226. A complete list of all Mayors from 1502 is proudly displayed on boards in the Council Chamber, a testament to the city’s enduring civic heritage and to which the new Mayor’s details have now been added.

In her inaugural address, Mayor Quail expressed her deep gratitude to her predecessor, Mayor Gershater, and outlined her vision for the city’s future.

The ceremony concluded with a short reception, where attendees, including representatives from Chichester Cathedral, local businesses, and civic organizations, had the chance to congratulate the new Mayor and discuss the city’s future.