Preston's Mayor, Councillor Phil Crowe, bids farewell

Today, Councillor Philip Crowe, the 696th Mayor of Preston, steps down from his role, making way for Councillor Sue Whittam, who will proudly take on the title of Madam Mayor. 

"It's been an honour and a privilege to serve as Mayor of Preston." 

To mark the occasion, Councillor Crowe will address fellow councillors and guests at the Mayor Making ceremony in the Council Chamber at Preston Town Hall. 

Reflecting on his time as Mayor, Councillor Crowe has shared many memorable highlights, from unveiling the Feathers McGraw statue and opening the new Animate Leisure Complex, to meeting famous faces like Nick Park and Paddy McGuinness, and attending the unforgettable Radio 2 in the Park event, where he made a guest appearance on stage in front of thousands with Radio 2 DJ Sara Cox.

Speaking fondly about that weekend, Councillor Crowe said: 

"That was brilliant — I was dying to see the Pet Shop Boys. We were taken to this huge tent, filled with screens, surrounded by police, fire and rescue, the ambulance service, and Preston City Council.  

"Then the head of security announced, 'Ladies and gentlemen, the Mayor and Mayoress of Preston,' and everyone stood up. It was incredible." 

Throughout his mayoral year, Councillor Crowe has championed several charities, including Furniture for Education Worldwide (FEW), Let's Grow Preston, and Disability Equality North West.

He is especially proud of his ongoing work with FEW in The Gambia. 

Reflecting on his time as Mayor, Councillor Crowe said: 

"Every day has brought a new highlight. The number of people who volunteer in Preston is phenomenal. In addition to my mayoral duties, I'm also honoured to serve as Honorary President of St Catherine's Hospice, which alone has more than 600 volunteers." 

Though his mayoral chapter is ending, Councillor Crowe will continue to serve as a councillor and remain committed to supporting his community. 

Councillor Crowe added: 

"I never imagined becoming a councillor, let alone the Mayor. It's been an honour and a privilege to represent the city I love."