New mayors in twin town Rossendale

Mayoral elections have now been held in the English twin town of Rossendale. The new Mayor of Rossendale is Michelle Smith, Councillor for the Britannia and Lee Mill ward, who was elected at the annual council meeting in May and will be assisted in her duties by the new Mayoress Jackie Oakes. The term of office for the Rossendale Mayor and Mayoress is one year.

Mayor Thomas Kerkhoff congratulated his British counterparts: "I wish you every success for your coming term of office and many encounters, also with the guests from your German twin town Bocholt.".

Michelle Smith becomes mayor
The new Mayor of Rossendal, Michelle Smith, has ten years' experience as a councillor. She has been Deputy Leader, Cabinet Member and Chair of the Audit and Accounts Committee. On taking office she said: "I am honoured to have been appointed Mayor of Rossendale and am very much looking forward to the year ahead. It will be an opportunity to meet many people, groups and charities who are committed to making Rossendale a great place to live and work."

Honorary Councillor Jackie Oakes presents Rossendale
The second Mayor of Rossendale, Jackie Oakes, is a former Labour local councillor and ward councillor. She was a member of the council of the English twin town for 14 years until 2024. She was made an honorary councillor last year for her services to the borough. She also represented Rossendale on Lancashire County Council. Her new role as mayor is not political. Jackie Oakes said after her election: "I am also looking forward to representing Rossendale across Lancashire as I meet mayors, dignitaries and groups from across the county to tell them about our wonderful borough."

Support for charities
As part of their activities, the Rossendale Mayoral Couple raise funds for charities. Michelle Smith and Jackie Oakes will be raising funds for the charities Carers Link, Bacup Pride and Kids in Rossendale to support their work.