Sunderland has officially welcomed a new Mayor, Councillor Robert Hutchinson, alongside new Mayoress Councillor Glenda Hall.
Councillor Hutchinson, who represents the Farringdon and Silksworth ward, was formally sworn in as Mayor during a full council meeting held on Wednesday 20 May, with Councillor Hall serving alongside him as Mayoress.
During the meeting, Cllr Hutchinson took over the ceremonial chains of office from the former Mayor, Cllr Ehthesham Haque.
Sunderland’s new Mayor Cllr Robert Hutchinson was 17 years old when he started his first business, Optic Innovation, and 58 years later it is still going strong.
He worked closely with the late Geoff Docherty, who brought many high profile bands to Sunderland in the 1960’s and 70’s.
Cllr Hutchinson has a keen interest in the city’s history and is a member of the of the Sunderland Antiquarian Society. He was elected to Sunderland City Council earlier this month.
Mayor of Sunderland Cllr Hutchinson said:
“In Sunderland we have a beautiful coastline, great heritage, and above all, the friendliest people in the world. Being Mayor is the honour of my life and I will not let you down.”
Mayoress Cllr Hall was also elected to the city council this month and represents the Tunstall and Humbledon Ward.
Also sworn in by full Council as Deputy Mayor and Deputy Consort for 2026-2027 was Southwick ward member Cllr Jannine Morrow, who will serve alongside her husband Mr George Morrow.
She is a retired Customer Services Officer and previously worked for Durham County Council.
The Mayor and Consort will be choosing Wearside charities to support during his year in office.
The outgoing Mayor, Cllr Ehthesham Haque, said:
“It has been the honour and privilege of my life to serve as the Mayor of this great and ancient city.
“I have had the great privilege of meeting the most incredible people. There are so many memorable occasions I will remember forever. To mention a few, the opening of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the opening of the Keel Crossing footbridge, and supporting our military with flag raising ceremonies and the Remembrance Day parade.
“Unfortunately it would be impossible to mention every single one, but I can honestly say being Mayor will always be one of the most special times – and the best memories – of my life.
“I’d like to say congratulations to our new Mayor and Deputy Mayor, I wish you both all the best and of course, the same goes to all of our newly elected members.”
During his time as Mayor, Cllr Haque raised £26,600 for his chosen mayor’s charities, Love, Amelia and Hopespring.
