Long-serving councillor Henry Gallagher is set to continue as the city’s Lord Mayor after being re-selected as the civic leader.
Cllr Gallagher was first named as Lord Mayor in May 2025 after he was selected to replace Cllr Rob Higgins as the city’s ‘First Citizen’.
The Liberal Democrat representative of the Dene and South Gosforth ward has been chosen to continue as Lord Mayor after his re-election in the recent local elections.
The Lord Mayor plays an important diplomatic role in the city by hosting civic functions and leading certain commemorative events and celebrations.
They also have an important role to play as the Chair of meetings of full council, and hosting visitors from all over the world.
To qualify as Lord Mayor, you must have served as a councillor for at least five years. With 52 newly elected councillors, Cllr Gallagher was selected to continue in the role.
The appointment was confirmed at yesterday’s Annual Meeting of Council, where Green Party councillor Alistair Chisholm was also named as Sheriff and Deputy Lord Mayor.
Cllr Gallagher said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Lord Mayor and it reminded me of what being a councillor is all about.
“Over the past year I have had the honour of championing Newcastle, recognising the contribution of incredible people and meeting thousands of new people.
“I want to thank my colleagues who have selected me to continue in this role and I can’t wait to continue as First Citizen of this amazing city.”
Cllr Chisholm, a Green Party councillor in the Ouseburn ward, has been selected as Deputy Lord Mayor and Sheriff.
He will represent the Lord Mayor in his absence, including at meetings of full council.
Cllr Chisholm said: “It is an honour to be selected as Deputy Lord Mayor and Sheriff. The first Green Party councillor to hold a ceremonial role in this city.
“I am delighted to be able to represent Newcastle in this increased capacity and I will continue to advocate for a more inclusive city for our residents.”
Find out more about the role of the Lord Mayor and Deputy Lord Mayor visit the Newcastle City Council website.