Ann is new Leeds Lord Mayor (From Wharfedale Observer)

Ann is new Leeds Lord Mayor

11:30am Saturday 2nd June 2012 in Local news

Harewood councillor Ann Castle has become the new Lord Mayor of Leeds.

Coun Castle, a Conservative, takes over the role from the Reverend Alan Taylor, and is the 119th Lord Mayor of Leeds.

She said: “It is a real honour to be able to serve as the Lord Mayor of Leeds, and I am very much looking forward to taking up this new role.

“Alan has done a fantastic job this year, and I look forward to taking up where he has left off.”

Councillor Castle, pictured right, who was born in Hull, moved to Leeds as a baby. She was educated at Leeds Girl’s High School, and later gained a degree at Leeds Met University as a mature student.

Having served on Leeds City Council for 20 years, Ann has a keen interest in planning and local politics and enjoys walking, music and the theatre in her spare time. Ann’s husband, Graham, will serve as the Lord Mayor’s Consort.

Councillor the Reverend Alan Taylor said: “It has been a great honour to represent the city as Lord Mayor over the past 12 months.”

“The people of Leeds have been extremely kind to me during my term and have helped to raise a substantial amount of money for my chosen charity Voluntary Action Leeds.”

He added: “I wish Ann all the very best for her year as Lord Mayor.”