Dunstable welcomes new mayor
A new mayor has been elected for Dunstable.
Independent councillor Richard Attwell has formally taken the chains of office during the town council’s annual meeting on Monday (May 18).
Councillor Attwell says he will focus on strengthening community ties, supporting local businesses, and championing initiatives that enhance the well-being of all Dunstable residents.
He has lived in Dunstable for 14 years – having moved from North West London – and last year served as Dunstable’s deputy mayor.
He said: “It is a profound honour and a privilege to be elected as the town mayor of Dunstable. I have always been proud to call this town my home, and I am eager to spend the coming year meeting the wonderful volunteers, organisations, and residents who make Dunstable so special. My focus will be on ensuring our town remains a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving place for everyone, and I look forward to representing our community at the many wonderful events we have planned.”
He was proposed by cllr Kotarski, with cllr Kenson Gurney seconding the motion.
Meanwhile, councillor Robert Blennerhassett has been elected as deputy mayor.
During the meeting, councillor Attwell spoke about the town’s royal connections and rich history – with Dunstable being granted the oldest Royal Charter in 1131. A new royal charter, granted by Queen Victoria in 1864, is on display in the mayor’s parlour in Grove House.
And he added that there was much to be proud of looking to the future too – and highlighted the town’s four green flag status awards for its parks and green spaces, and it’s success as the Anglia in Bloom overall winner in 2025.
His chosen charities will be The Tibbs Dementia Foundation and Luton and Dunstable Prostate Support Group, and he added that he also intends to support the work of the Dunstable Citizens Advice.
The evening also served as a celebration of the Dunstable Community Lottery, marking exactly one year since its official launch at the previous Annual Council Meeting. A presentation was held to highlight the lottery’s significant impact over the past 12 months.
Following his acceptance speech, cllr Brennan proposed a vote of thanks for the courteous, efficient and admirable way in which the outgoing mayor, cllr Sally Kimondo, had carried out her duties during the past municipal year.
She thanked everyone involved in making her mayoral year so memorable and filled with many treasured memories.
For more information on the mayor or to invite the Mayor to an upcoming event, please visit the Dunstable Town Council website at www.dunstable.gov.uk