The office of Mayor and its role

The Mayor of Oldham is elected to office by fellow councillors and serves a one-year term of office. The Mayor is supported during this term by a Mayoress or Consort, usually their partner. A Deputy Mayor is also elected to act as understudy to the Mayor. In Oldham, the Deputy Mayor usually goes on to serve as Mayor the following year.

The role of the Mayor is to be an ambassador for Oldham and represent the Borough at a variety of events and functions. As an ambassador, the Mayor is committed to raising the profile of Oldham and forging links with the private, voluntary and public sector. The Mayor also chairs Council meetings.

Oldham’s first Mayor was William Jones who was elected to office in the 1849/1850 year - 1849 is the year of Oldham’s municipal incorporation. The first female Mayor of Oldham was Dame Sarah Lees who held office in the 1910/1911 year.

For further information on how to invite the Mayor to a function, arrange a visit to the parlour and silverware area, or for information on the Mayor’s supported charities and how to make a donation please contact:

The Mayor’s Secretary, PO Box 39, Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham OL1 1UJ
Tel: 0161 770 4012 Fax: 0161 770 4032
e-mail: mayors.office@oldham.gov.uk