New Ceremonial Mayor of Salford takes office

A new Ceremonial Mayor of Salford has been presented with the chains of office.

Councillor Heather Fletcher was formally installed at the Full Council meeting on Wednesday 21 May 2025.

She has announced that Salford Loaves and Fishes, Critchley Community Hub – Age UK, and L’Chaim (foodbank) will be her three nominated charities for the year.

The Ceremonial Mayor of Salford Councillor Heather Fletcher said: “It has been an absolute honour to represent the wonderful people of Swinton since 2016 and it is now a privilege to be installed as the Ceremonial Mayor with a very exciting year ahead.

“I have chosen three special charities that are very close to my heart. I will do my best to fundraise for them as well as increase the awareness of the vital work they do right in the heart of our community here in Salford.

“A schedule of exciting charity events is already planned to raise money for  these charities and I would like people to attend the charity events to support these worthy causes.  I am also looking forward to representing the city at important Civic events and seeing first-hand the good work carried out by local community groups”

Councillor Heather Fletcher was born at Hope Hospital, now known as Salford Royal, and grew up with her parents and sister in the Kersal and Broughton Park area. She studied at Birmingham University and qualified and practiced as a solicitor and subsequently ran her own law cost drafting business for 15 years.

After 33 years in law she switched career to politics and became a local councillor representing Swinton South (Park) in 2016. Since then she has been elected in 2021 and 2024, increasing her majority each time. She has also served as deputy chair of Licensing and chair of the Holocaust memorial day planning committee.

Outside of politics her main hobbies include watching football, amateur dramatics, sightseeing holidays and interfaith work in her role as chair of a Greater Manchester Interfaith organisation.

She will be assisted in her role by her Consort Max Jacobs, who is her nephew.

Councillor Fletcher takes over from Councillor Tanya Burch who raised  £38,714 for charity in her year in office.

Extra information:

The Ceremonial Mayor, Councillor Heather Fletcher, has chosen to support the following Charities during her year in office:

Salford Loaves and Fishes

This charity brings together a wealth of experience and expertise working with homeless, vulnerable and isolated people in the city. They have supported many people, embracing, empowering and offering hope to those in need.

Critchley Community Hub – Age UK

The award winning Critchley Community Hub, Social Centre and Garden Café welcomes people to make new friends, learn a new skill, and enjoy a speciality coffee and cake or a homecooked lunch all in bright and modern surroundings or our pleasant and landscaped outdoor gardens.

At Critchley Community Hub, we encourage healthy living, group activities, and gentle exercise. They also offer volunteering opportunities to help to alleviate social isolation and loneliness.

L’Chaim (Foodbank)

Here at L'chaim Foodbank, we know that sometimes all it takes to change the world is a little support. Since our founding, for over a decade, we have been determined to make an impact. A single goal drives the core of our efforts, providing a safety net for those in the most vulnerable position. To do our part in making the world a better place for all.

As well as providing food, clothing and household support, the Foodbank has been there to offer help and moral support.  Also acting as a signposting hub, the Foodbank has helped people confused about what additional assistance is available and where to find it..  If not able to help directly, the Foodbank is there to signpost or have a friendly chat and reduce loneliness.