Ken Norchi has been sworn in as Tamworth's new mayor, taking on the borough's ceremonial role for a second time after previously serving in 2016. The appointment marks the start of a new civic year for Tamworth Borough Council, with Cllr Norchi representing the town at official events, charity functions and community gatherings across the area.
Who is Ken Norchi?
Cllr Ken Norchi is a long-serving member of Tamworth Borough Council. His return to the mayoralty follows his first term in the role nearly a decade ago, giving him familiar experience of the duties that come with representing Tamworth at regional and national occasions. Pat Pallett has been appointed Deputy Mayor to support him throughout the term.
The mayor's role is non-executive and ceremonial, but it carries significant visibility within Tamworth. The post involves opening events, welcoming visitors, supporting local charities and acting as a figurehead for the borough at council meetings and public functions.
What the swearing-in involved
The swearing-in ceremony formally installed Cllr Norchi as mayor and confirmed Pat Pallett as Deputy Mayor. Such ceremonies typically include the mayor-making tradition, during which chains of office are transferred and the incoming mayor pledges to serve the borough. Tamworth Borough Council published details of the welcome for the new mayor on its website, noting the handover from the previous civic year.
For residents, the ceremony marks a visible change in the town's civic leadership and sets the tone for the council's community-facing work over the coming months.
Priorities for the mayoral year
Cllr Norchi has indicated that fundraising for local causes will be a central theme of his time as mayor. He is already organising events to raise money for community groups and charities across Tamworth, starting with a chocolate bingo night held at Bolehall Swifts on 22 May, which raised more than £500.
Residents who want to follow upcoming mayoral events and fundraisers can check the Mayor of Tamworth Facebook page, where activities and community appeals are promoted throughout the year.
What this means for Tamworth residents
While day-to-day council services and planning decisions remain the responsibility of the council's executive and committees, the mayor plays an important ambassadorial role for Tamworth. A mayor who actively supports local fundraising can help draw attention to voluntary groups, sports clubs and charities that rely on public donations.
Anyone interested in attending mayoral events or supporting fundraisers should watch Tamworth Borough Council announcements and the Mayor of Tamworth social channels for dates and venues as they are confirmed.
Background and context
Tamworth's mayoralty rotates among eligible councillors and is separate from the council's political leadership on policy matters. The role has historically been used to champion local causes, recognise community achievement and represent the borough at events beyond Staffordshire.
Cllr Norchi's second term builds on his earlier experience in 2016, when he undertook similar civic duties for the town. With Pat Pallett as Deputy Mayor, the civic team will share responsibilities for engagements across Tamworth and the surrounding area during the year ahead.
