Councillor Ken Meeson has stepped down as Mayor of Solihull after two years of service.
He and his wife, Annette, will now serve as Deputy Mayor and Mayoress for the coming year whilst Councillor Diana Holl-Allen MBE becomes the new Mayor of Solihull.
The Deputy Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Meeson, said:
“As I reflect on my term as Mayor, I want to say thank you to the many organisations and individuals who have invited us to attend so many memorable events in what has been an historic year.
“With the Platinum Jubilee, the Commonwealth Games, and the new King’s Coronation, it was a time that will live on in the memory for many years to come.
“There was sadness too, with the death of the late Queen and the unfolding cruelty of war in Ukraine, to which many Solihull families responded by opening their homes to those forced to flee for their safety.
“We have also seen many people from Hong Kong settling in the borough, and I am proud that people in Solihull and the council have worked together to make our new residents feel welcome.
“It has been a great delight to witness the work of so many wonderful organisations, visit local schools and care homes, and experience the outstanding music, art, and theatrical talent that enriches our cultural life here in Solihull.
“A particular highlight of mine was the sell-out concert for the Mayoral Charity, hosted by Solihull’s Music Service, to support vulnerable children and young people in care. I am grateful to them and all the organisations that have donated throughout the year.
“It has been a privilege to serve as Mayor, and I finish with a sense of pride in Solihull and its people. Whilst there are challenges ahead, we remain determined to maintain our status as ‘the town in the country’ where quality of life, friendliness, and volunteering continue to be our trademarks.”