Introducing our new Mayor and Deputy Mayor
At the Annual Meeting of the Town Council held on Wednesday 8th May, Councillor Fiona Rowley was elected by the Council to be Chairman and Mayor of Newbiggin by the Sea. Also elected at the meeting was Councillor Tom Roll to the office of Vice-Chairman and Deputy Mayor.
We are thrilled to announce our new Mayor of Newbiggin by the Sea, Councillor Fiona Rowley. A dedicated resident and beloved community member of Newbiggin by the Sea, who was co-opted as North Ward Councillor in 2021. Born by the sea and a Northumberland local, Fiona has made significant contributions to our town through various roles, including Director of the Newbiggin Amateur Pantomime Society and Secretary of the Newbiggin Allotment Association.
Fiona’s heartfelt connection to Newbiggin is evident. She has been an active participant in the “Choir by the Sea” and ran a local business, “Gifted by the Sea.” Her deep understanding of and passion for supporting local independent businesses shines through.
Upon her appointment, Fiona expressed her excitement and commitment: “I am delighted to have been nominated by my fellow councillors for this role. I love the town and its people. These are the sentiments I expressed on joining the Town Council and remain true in accepting the role of Chair.” She also paid tribute to Alison Sutherland, the outgoing Chair, praising her dedication and service “I must thank Alison Sutherland the departing Chair for her hard work and dedication to the role of Chairman and Mayor over the last 12 months. Alison has had an active civic term and has attended and represented our Town on many occasions always giving her best and a great Ambassador for Newbiggin”.
Looking forward, Fiona is eager to build on the foundations laid by her predecessors, stating “In partnership with my colleagues and the Council Officers, I will strive to encourage Newbiggin by the Sea to continue to thrive and be the place residents, tourists, and any visitors want to be”. Despite today’s challenges, Fiona sees a bright future full of opportunities for Newbiggin, aiming to keep it a “jewel in the crown of Northumberland.”
We are delighted to introduce our newly appointed Vice Chair, Councillor Tom Roll! Tom brings a profound commitment and a unifying vision to his new role, poised to advocate for the key initiatives that hold significance for our beloved town.
His unwavering dedication to our community radiates brightly, underscoring his readiness to effect meaningful change.
In a message to the community, Tom expressed, “I extend my gratitude to my fellow councillors for this honour. Together, as a unified Town Council, we will continue working in the best interests of Newbiggin by the Sea, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.”
Let’s all give a warm welcome to Mayor of Newbiggin by the Sea, Councillor Fiona Rowley and Vice Chair, Councillor Tom Roll, as they begin there journey to make our beloved seaside town even more vibrant and inviting.
