Fylde mayor set to stay on for a second year

Coun Cheryl Little, who is to be her successor, is preparing to take over the role next year rather than this, with the next in line to then also take over 12 months later than originally planned.

The arrangement is in line with that being followed by most local councils in light of the coronavirus pandemic, which has seen council meetings and a host of events cancelled.

It is understood that Fylde’s group leaders have agreed that Coun Little, whose mayor-making ceremony was due to held next month, will now become mayor-elect for 2021/22. Conservative colleague Coun Roger Small is to be her deputy, succeeding Coun Richard Redcliffe, who is set to stay on for a second year as Coun Jacques’ No 2.

The second year for Coun Jacques means she will be able to continue to raise money for her four mayoral charities – Bloodwise Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre; North West Blood Bikes Lancashire and Lakes; Kilgrimol Guide Centre and One Fylde - which were denied their biggest fund-raiser of the year when the mayoral ball was called off last month.

“I would be delighted to stay on for a second year,” said Coun Jacques, who is currently self-isolating bat home in St Annes.

“The support I have received this year has been excellent – thanks so much to everyone for their backing – but the year just ‘fizzled out’ in these unprecedented circumstances, which have really brought the best out of people.

“My thanks to all the key workers and my thoughts go out to those who’s lives have been affected by the virus.

“I am thankful for living in such a wonderful place and representing the lovely caring people of Fylde.”

Coun Little, like Coun Jacques a former St Annes town mayor, said: “In the circumstances, it makes practical sense for the handover to be put back a year.

“It will be a real honour to become Fylde mayor and I am really looking forward to it. There will be much to celebrate when all this is over.”

Ian Curtis, Fylde Council's head of governance, said: "The Government has put in place emergency legislation that has the effect of continuing the mayoralty of the existing mayor if the annual meeting of the council can’t take place this year – as currently looks likely."