The annual Mayor Making ceremony, a highly anticipated event in Colchester's civic calendar, will take place on Wednesday, 21 May 2025, and residents are invited to follow events on the council’s YouTube channel.
The traditional ceremony, held at Colchester Town Hall, will see all councillors in their robes processing to the Old Library to formally vote for the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor.
This year, Councillor Michael Lilley will be sworn in as Colchester's 192nd Mayor, with Alderman Lyn Barton serving as Mayoress. The new Deputy Mayor will be Councillor Andrew Ellis and his Mayoress will be his wife, Nicky Ellis.
During the ceremony, the new Mayor will declare his theme for the year: Health, Happiness and Wellbeing, reflecting his commitment to supporting both physical and mental health across the city. He will also announce the charities that will benefit from fundraising activities during his tenure: Colchester Foodbank, Level Best Enterprises, Open Road, The Not Forgotten, and Underdog Crew Studios.
Following his election as Mayor, Councillor Lilley will take the Mayoral Oath, receive the robe and chains of office and make a short speech of thanks. Councillors will then be invited to elect Councillor Ellis as Deputy Mayor, who will then receive his chains of office and robe.
Councillors will then be invited to approve a vote of thanks to the retiring Mayor, Councillor Lesley Scott-Boutell.
After the ceremony, councillors will adjourn to the Council Chamber to approve membership of this year's committees and panels, elect chairs and deputy chairs for the committees and panels, and discuss other items of council business.
The Mayor-elect, Cllr Michael Lilley, said: “It is a tremendous honour to be appointed Mayor of Colchester and to serve our city in this historic role. The Mayoralty is a symbol of community, continuity and civic pride, and I will do my utmost to represent all who live and work here. This is a valuable opportunity to support good causes, celebrate local achievements, and bring people together across Colchester’s many communities.”
The Town Watch will also be present to welcome guests, including representatives from Colchester Garrison, the new Mayor's nominated charities, and other civic dignitaries.
Residents are advised to follow the ceremony live on the council’s YouTube channel rather than attend in person, due to space limitations in the Old Library.
Page last reviewed: 14 May 2025