Manchester welcomes a new ‘proud Mancunian’ Lord Mayor

Councillor Paul Andrews has been appointed the new Lord Mayor in the city of Manchester in a full council meeting this week.

Born in Crumpsall Hospital, Manchester, Cllr Andrews previously lived in the Bradford area of the city before moving to Wythenshawe in 1959.

Who is Manchester’s Lord Mayor?

The proud Mancunian attended Poundswick Infant School, Poundswick Junior School and then Poundswick Grammar.

Eventually, ending his schooling in 1970 and going on to complete an apprenticeship in the print industry.

In 1978, he began working as a baggage handler at Manchester Airport with an already tireless work ethic.

It would be almost two decades before Cllr Andrews began his political life; first being elected to Manchester City Council in 1996, representing Woodhouse Park Ward.

He has had an outstanding participation in committees, serving on several and completing two terms on the Executive Committee and he has sat on numerous governing bodies.

In a return to his roots, he served on the Manchester Airport Trust Fund and the Port Health Authority reflecting his unflinching dedication and passion to bettering Manchester throughout his life.

Celebrating Manchester’s carers

One of Cllr Andrews most revisited themes is celebrating carers; he was the Executive Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing and served on the Foster Panel for 10 years, to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable young people with help through volunteers and professional organisations.

Cllr Andrews has been married to his wife Karen since 1996 who has been a steadfast supporter in his duty to public life. He regularly visits Ireland and Scotland, where he can be found partaking in one of his favourite past times: fishing.

Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Paul Andrews, said: “To be appointed as Lord Mayor of this city is humbling and an utmost honour. And it is one I do not take lightly, as I seek to serve hard-working Mancunians who want to see their beloved city thrive.

“Under my tenure and through our core values of hard-work, collaboration and innovation, I aim to continue Manchester’s legacy of being a city that supports our residents to succeed.”

What is a Lord Mayor?

The Lord Mayor represents the city or borough at various events, ceremonies, and functions, both within the local community and on a broader national and international level.

They promote the interests of the city, its businesses, culture, and charitable causes. This often involves hosting receptions, meetings, and engaging with stakeholders.

Many Lord Mayors take on a significant charitable role during their tenure, supporting and fundraising for local charities and community organisations.

The Lord Mayor participates in a range of ceremonial activities, including leading civic processions, attending formal events, and welcoming distinguished visitors to the city.

The tenure of a Lord Mayor typically lasts for one year, although this can vary depending on the specific local government arrangements. Some cities have traditions where the position rotates among council members on an annual basis

Overall, while the role of Lord Mayor varies from city to city, it is primarily a symbolic and ceremonial position aimed at promoting civic pride, representing the community, and fostering positive relationships both locally and beyond.

You can find out more about Paul Andrews, the new Lord Mayor by clicking here