Wellington Town Councillor Vivienne Stock-Williams was sworn in as Mayor of Taunton Deane at a Mayor-making ceremony at Wellington School’s Alan Rogers Centre this week.
An invited audience of councillors from across Taunton Deane, guests, representatives from both the armed services and civil organisations and Taunton Deane’s Member of Parliament, Rebecca Pow, witnessed the formal ceremony which is part of Taunton Deane’s Annual Council Meeting.
Outgoing Mayor Councillor Marcia Hill handed over to Mrs Stock-Williams who has served as Deputy Mayor during Mrs Hill’s year in office. Councillor Hazel Prior-Sankey was sworn in as Deputy Mayor. The appointments were formally proposed and seconded by members of the council before Mrs Stock-Williams signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office.
The new Mayor was dressed in the uniform of office – red cloak, black hat and heavy gold chain which are worn at Council meetings and for civil ceremonies – before being led by the Sergeant at Mace to address the audience. She will be accompanied by her consort, Ian Stock, during her year as Mayor.
Mrs Stock-Williams has been a Town Councillor for Wellington West since 2003 and served as Town Mayor from 2012 to 2013.