CAMELFORD could soon see the introduction of a formal event to welcome new mayors and thank outgoing mayors for their dedication to the community.

This has come about after mayor of Camelford, Claire Hewlett, reported on the number of ‘mayor making’ and civic events in towns throughout Cornwall, which she claims brings the community together and provides a chance to network with local residents, as well as thank outgoing mayors for their work and to welcome new mayors into the role.

She said at the full meeting of Camelford Town Council on Thursday, August 1: “This one came about because I have been to a number of events in Cornwall to introduce the town’s new mayor. It is noticeable that we don’t do any of this in Camelford.”

Deputy mayor, Rob Rotchell, who has been mayor of Camelford a number of times, said: “We have formalised it (mayor handover) more over the years, but I still think we could do more. The mayor is the first citizen of Camelford, it is a prominent position for the town. For us, it’s like you have your last meeting (as mayor), you hand over the chain and say good luck.”

He explained that elsewhere in Cornwall, the candidate must be proposed and has to say why they should be mayor.

“We need to be a bit more formal in the way we do things,” he added. “Some places are more dramatic than others — if you go to Launceston it is a big thing, it’s very nice.”

Town clerk Esther Greig said the current process for Camelford is nominations and votes. Cllr Emma Grigg asked how the process would change if a mayor was to be proposed.

Cllr Rotchell said: “You approach them. If they say yes you have to stand up and say why they should be (mayor) and they have to stand up and say why they should be mayor.”

Cllr Hewlett said that many mayors also have a cadet to accompany them at events. She then continued: “The mayor stands up and publicly accepts their position.”

It seems Launceston was an example to follow, as Cllr Hewlett reflected upon her invite to the town’s civic event earlier in the year: “Launceston do a really lovely thing. They recognise their longest serving councillors.

“If we were to do something, it would be something that would happen from next May. Many towns also have a church service.”

However, Cllr Rotchell was not supportive of this idea, saying Camelford didn’t continue this tradition due to lack of public interest. He went on to say: “I think there should be some recognition of the outgoing mayor.”

Cllr Hewlett wanted to make one thing clear, however: “I don’t want any robes or silly hats!”

Cllr Andy Shaw had some concerns regarding the manner of the proposed events. He said: “I disagree completely. We’re not big enough to do this. I’m really concerned how we are being led down a road of dancing and tea parties.”

But Cllr Hewlett disagreed, stating a mayor choosing or civic event for Camelford would be chance to network with the community.

Councillors decided to defer a decision on this to the next meeting in September.