History in the Making as Chester's New Lord Mayor and Sheriff Appointed
Photo: Left to right Councillor Margaret Parker – Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Sherin Akhtar – Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Simon Eardley – Sheriff of Chester
A historic milestone will be marked in Chester this May, as the city prepares to welcome its new Lord Mayor and Sheriff in a ceremony steeped in tradition. The office of Lord Mayor of Chester dates back to 1238.
Councillor Sherin Akhtar will become the 808th Lord Mayor of Chester, making history as the first female Lord Mayor to wear the hijab and represent such a rich blend of modern Britain.
The current Lord Mayor, Councillor Razia Daniels, born in Tanzania and a resident of Chester since 1985, will pass the chain of office in what is expected to be a memorable ceremony.
The role of Chester Town Clerk, which dates back to 1291, is now held by Delyth Curtis, Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Chief Executive. Del is the 54th Town Clerk of Chester and the first woman to hold the position. Del will preside over the ancient investiture ceremony, to be held at Chester Town on 23 May 2025.
Councillor Akhtar, who represents Upton ward and is a Chester Charter Trustee, was born and raised in the UK and now lives in Chester with her family. Originally from Oldham, she brings with her a strong cultural identity, shaped by her upbringing and deep commitment to public service.
The new Lord Mayor’s theme for the civic year is 'Pride in Place', - a focus on celebrating the people, places, and organisations that contribute to the city’s strength and vibrancy. Cllr Akhtar has expressed her commitment to engaging with local communities, schools, businesses, and voluntary groups, helping to reduce barriers and promote inclusivity across Chester.
Councillor Akhtar’s appointment carries wider significance for representation and inclusion. As a Muslim woman who wears the hijab, she is proud to bring greater visibility to the city’s diversity. She also embraces her Bangladeshi heritage, which continues to shape her values and connection to community life.
Councillor Akhtar said:
I am deeply humbled and proud to be appointed the 808th Lord Mayor of Chester. I will work hard to be a positive and progressive ambassador for our city. I look forward to continuing the ancient traditions associated with this historic office while promoting my theme of Pride in Place. My appointment represents a powerful statement of inclusion and identity,” she said. I hope it sends a positive message to young women everywhere—that with dedication and belief in yourself, you can achieve great things.
Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said:
The Council is proud that this post has now been held in succession, by two female leaders from minority communities. We warmly welcome Councillor Akhtar into this prestigious post and are proud to support her vision of inclusion, which reflects the increased diversity within our local community and, we hope, will continue to inspire a new generation of leaders.
The Dean of Chester Cathedral, the Very Revd Dr Tim Stratford, said:
Chester Cathedral will be delighted to welcome Councillor Akhtar to the role of Lord Mayor and will be proud to work and support her during her civic year.
To reflect her faith the new Lord Mayor has chosen Imam Hafez Kamrul Alom of Chester Blacon Mosque as her Faith Leader.
During the ceremony, the new Sheriff of Chester, will also be invested. Councillor Simon Eardley, Councillor for Saughall and Mollington, will become the 1372nd Sheriff of Chester.
The office of Sheriff of Chester is even older than that Lord Mayor; the first recorded Sheriff of Chester was in 1102. Councillor Eardley will continue the traditional role and intends to demonstrate particular support and encouragement to those working in crime prevention agencies, the emergency services, those maintaining law and order and the judiciary service.