Councillor couple become Lord Mayor and Mayoress

Cllrs Robson and Cowan will serve as Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress Photo credit: Cardiff Counil

The new Lord Mayor of Cardiff was inaugurated yesterday, May 22, in a ceremony in County Hall.

Councillor Adrian Robson, who has represented the Rhiwbina ward for more than twenty years, was presented with the official chain during Cardiff Council's Annual General Meeting.

Cllr Robson becomes the 121st Lord Mayor of the City and County of Cardiff.

His wife, Councillor Jayne Cowan, who is Cardiff’s current longest serving sitting councillor, will serve as his Consort.

The couple first met in 2001 and married at Cardiff's Council Chamber in 2003. They are the first Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress for more than 40 years to both be serving councillors.

As is custom, the Lord Mayor has nominated two charities to support during his term - The Forget-Me-Not Chorus and Cardiff Dogs Home.

The choir, originally set up in Rhiwbina, is for people living with dementia and those who support them and the Rescue Hotel supports the dogs at Cardiff Dogs Home by providing care and resources, while ensuring they have the best possible chance of finding loving forever homes.

Speaking at his inauguration, the new Lord Mayor said the appointment was a “tremendous honour” and was “looking forward to meeting many Cardiff residents” throughout the year.

He continued: "With the help and support of the Lady Mayoress, I hope that we are able to make a difference for these wonderful charities that are held close to our hearts, by showcasing them and providing them with the recognition that they deserve.”

“Giving vulnerable rescue dogs a second chance”

The Lord and Lady Mayoress, who have been impacted by dementia and are dog lovers, have outlined some of their plans over the year ahead.

These include fundraising events such as sponsored charity walks, raffles, BBQs, quizzes, a musical concert, coffee mornings, afternoon teas and a gala ball.

Katherine Harri, director of development and communications at the Forget-Me-Not Chorus, said: "The Lord Mayor's generosity and belief in our work will help us continue to bring connection, friendship, and joy through song to people living with dementia, and those who love and care for them. Thank you!"

Toria Acreman, co-founder of The Rescue Hotel also commented on the news and said: "As a small, grassroots organisation dedicated to giving vulnerable rescue dogs a second chance, this recognition means the world to us and will make a big difference to our cause.

“We are excited for the opportunities that this partnership will bring to help raise awareness of our mission and hopefully raise vital funds that will help us to continue supporting the homeless dogs of Cardiff.”

Councillor Michael Michael, who represents Trowbridge and St Mellons, has been re-appointed Deputy Lord Mayor.