Published on 16th May 2023

Cheltenham mayor 2023 - 2024, Matt Babbage

The annual inauguration of the mayor was held at Cheltenham Town Hall at 6.30pm yesterday (Monday 15 May).

Cllr Matt Babbage succeeds his predecessor, Cllr Sandra Holliday, and Cllr Paul Baker is deputy mayor.

The mayor chairs the council and represents the borough at many local business and charity events throughout the year. This year, the new mayor has decided to focus his fundraising efforts towards three charities: Maggie’s Cheltenham, Cotswold Riding for the Disabled and Cheltenham Open Door.

Cllr Matt Babbage said: “I'm delighted to be appointed Mayor of Cheltenham. My chosen charities provide invaluable support to people right across our town - from those affected by cancer or living with a disability, to homelessness and isolation. 

“Many of us will have friends or family members, if not ourselves directly, who have benefitted from some of the services these three fantastic organisations provide and I am proud to be raising funds for them over the coming year."

The Medal of Honour recipient for 2023 is Trevor Colbeck, a local volunteer who has worked tirelessly for the charity Sue Ryder for over 45 years.

Cllr Sandra Holliday, out-going mayor, says: “I am delighted that we have raised £15k for my chosen charities #FeedCheltenham and Cheltenham Housing Aid Centre which during this cost of living crisis is much needed revenue.

“It has been an honour to acknowledge the tireless efforts of two of Cheltenham’s residents: Trevor Colbeck who received the Medal of Honour for his work with the Sue Ryder charity and Green Hero award recipient Phil Stacey for his volunteering with Cheltenham green spaces.”

Follow the mayor on Twitter @CheltenhamMayor and on Facebook, Mayor of Cheltenham.

For further details about the awards contact Jennie Ingram, personal assistant to the mayor on 01242 264108 or [email protected].

For media enquiries contact: [email protected] or call 01242 264321.