New Lord Mayor appointed for Stoke-on-Trent

The new Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent has officially been appointed.

Councillor Steve Watkins was selected as the city’s latest Lord Mayor during Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s annual council meeting this morning.

Councillor Watkins was first elected as a Labour councillor for Abbey Hulton in May 2023. His appointment comes during a milestone year for the city, as Stoke-on-Trent celebrates 100 years since being granted city status.

Before being elected as a councillor, he worked for 25 years at Royal Doulton and served six years in the military as part of B Company Second Mercian Regiment, which he joined as a reservist in 1982.

Now semi-retired, Councillor Watkins has lived in Stockton Brook for nearly 40 years with his wife – fellow Stoke-on-Trent City Councillor – Lynn Watkins. The couple have two sons and a granddaughter, and Lynn will serve as Lady Mayoress

Councillor Steve Watkins said: “I am delighted to be named First Citizen of this great city, and it means even more to take on the role in our Centenary year.

I’m especially lucky to have my wife by my side who will be making sure I get up, dress up and show up on time.

“Over the next 12 months I will be helping to promote and support our city during our Centenary year and I am looking forward to attending as many events as possible. I would also like to promote the skills and talents of our businesses and neighbourhoods who make up our diverse and inclusive city.”

During his year of office, Councillor Watkins will raise money for his three chosen charities: Help for Heroes, the National Literacy Trust (Stoke-on-Trent) and Saltbox Carelink.

Councillor Joan Bell, who represents the Sandford Hill ward has been appointed Deputy Lord Mayor for the year ahead. Her consort will be her husband Dennis Bell.