Russell Gordon-Smith (P 64-69) serving as Mayor of Winchester

There has been a mayor of Winchester since 1199, the year that Richard, Coeur de Lion, died and his brother, King John, succeeded to the throne of England. The city is proud to say that the mayoralty of Winchester is second only to London in seniority. Over the centuries the power of the mayor has changed from being the leader of an influential oligarchy to being rather more a figurehead representing the City of Winchester and the district which covers 250 square miles.

Whilst the mayor no longer has executive powers, he or she has a number of important statutory duties: leading civic events, granting freedom of the city, wreath-laying, chairing the monthly meeting of the full council. There are some light-hearted occasions too: the annual Shrove Tuesday pancake race held in the Cathedral close and leading the procession to the November 5^th bonfire night display and setting off the fireworks.An important element of the role is recognising the work of charities and encouraging volunteer efforts, particularly those of smaller and lesser known specialist local charities that do such sterling work. As I spend a lot of my time visiting local businesses and charities, I can foster and encourage useful links between them.Every mayor each year selects three or four local charities to promote. I have chosen four. Fundraising is time consuming and by no means easy in our present financial climate. I have been immensely grateful to all the volunteers who have worked so hard with me to raise money for the chosen charities.  I have brought in some innovative ideas such as special mayoral merchandise to sell at a range of money-raising events throughout the year.

A sound economy is essential to the district, and I am always keen to support new businesses that open up or expand in the area. Recently I went to an event to celebrate the expansion of the Saab Business Campus. I have opened many new shops, cafes, restaurants and even a funeral service. I had to think hard about what to say in my speech wishing their business success.

By tradition, the mayor, during the year of office, becomes a trustee of various organisations. One of my favourites is the Hospital of St Cross, the most ancient alms-houses in the country. ‘The Brothers of Noble Poverty’ are a lovely group, and amongst them is David Kilmister, an Old Sedbergian, (Hart), who recognised my OS tie which I happened to be wearing when I first visited. The mayoralty also has strong connections with the Cathedral and its ancient Christian traditions. We hold an annual Mayors’ Sunday in which the Mayor of Winchester sets the theme for the service.

I have learned so much during my time as mayor: many aspects of our ancient city and the wonderful people who live within and throughout the district. I have found that one sees the very best side of citizens, and people really appreciate a visit by the mayor, particularly when he or she turns up wearing the wonderful gold chain and full regalia. My best memory of this is of my visit to a special needs school. The Head had asked that I come in ‘full fig’ as the children love to see it. One little boy stopped in his tracks and said, ‘Are you the King?’ It made my day.

Russell Gordon-Smith

Read a Winchester City Council article about Russell HERE.