A new Mayor for Worcester was voted in at Worcester City's Annual Council meeting on Tuesday (18 May). Cllr Stephen Hodgson has taken over the chain of office from the outgoing Mayor, Cllr Jo Hodges.
Cllr Adrian Gregson is Worcester's new Deputy Mayor.
Cllr Stephen Hodgson said: "It's a great privilege to be chosen as Mayor of Worcester, having lived in the city for over 30 years.
"It's now time for us to come together and celebrate our great city, as we move forward and recover from the pandemic. There will be plenty of opportunities to do so over the coming months."
Cllr Hodgson's theme for the mayoral year ahead will be 'Coming Together,' as the city emerges from the pandemic and people reconnect with one another. Stephen's two nominated mayoral charities are Aspie (www.aspie.org.uk), a self-help and motivation group for adults with Asperger's Syndrome; and the Stroke Association (www.stroke.org.uk).Stephen's wife Lucy suffered a stroke earlier this year but is making a good recovery.
Stephen Hodgson has lived in Worcester for over 30 years, moving to the city in 1990. He was brought up in North East England, graduating from Northumbria University.He has worked in the logistics industry throughout his career and is currently employed by a major dairy based in Droitwich.
Stephen has been a city councillor for Warndon Parish North since 2004.His wife is Councillor Lucy Hodgson, who represents the neighbouring Warndon Parish South Ward and was herself Mayor of Worcester in 2008/9.This is the first time a married couple have both served as mayors of Worcester. Stephen and Lucy live in Warndon Villages and both serve on Warndon Parish Council.
Worcester's new Mayor is a keen supporter of Worcester Warriors and has previously travelled to many European away games.He is also a fan of Durham County Cricket Club and Sunderland AFC, reflecting his native ties to the north east.
Stephen regularly attends services at St. Nicholas Church in Warndon, and his co-chaplains will be Rev. Diane Cooksey and Rev. Rosie Moss - both from this church.
Stephen's great uncle was Ernest Tinkler, who was Chief Constable for Worcester City Police for many years.His son, Ted Tinkler, played for Worcestershire County Cricket club and is listed as player 284 on the Basil D'Olivera stand at New Road.
