New Ashby de la Zouch Mayor is named at Town Council's annual meeting
Ashby's new Mayor is Labour town councillor Damilola Ojuri.
She was elected to the post for the next 12 months, taking over from last year's Mayor, Cllr Liz Parle.
Cllr Ojuri has been a member of Ashby de la Zouch Town Council since the parish elections held in 2023 - and she is a representative of the Holywell ward.
She has been Deputy Mayor of Ashby for the past year and attended a number of the town's events.
This year's Deputy Mayor is Cllr Murrae Blair-Park.
Cllr Ojuri posted on social media following Monday's annual council meeting and said: "I would like to begin by thanking Almighty God for the opportunity to serve as Mayor of Ashby de la Zouch.
"I would also like to thank the Leader of the Town Council, Cllr Chris Smith and all Ashby Town Councillors for electing me to this position.
"I look forward to working closely with everyone over the coming year to support the fantastic people, businesses, and organisations in Ashby.
"I pay tribute to the outgoing Mayor, Cllr Liz Parle, for her dedicated service, and on a personal note, I would like to sincerely thank my husband and children for their support, encouragement, and understanding. I am truly grateful for their love and patience.
"Together, I am confident that we can continue to make positive contributions to our town, preserving its rich history while embracing opportunities for the future.
"Thank you once again for your trust and support - I am truly grateful."
The ceremony included the traditional and symbolic handing over of the mayoral chains of office.
The outgoing Mayor, Councillor Liz Parle, officially transferred the responsibilities and regalia to Councillor Ojuri, signifying the commencement of her mayoral duties. Councillor Parle was warmly thanked for her dedicated service and leadership throughout the 2024/25 term, during which she represented the town with distinction and commitment.
Cllr Ojuri said: "My husband and I began house hunting as we were looking for a bigger home for our growing family. We initially searched online but couldn't find a suitable place. I decided to widen the search and came across Ashby de la Zouch. Fola and I immediately assumed the town was outside the UK, but to our surprise, we discovered it was based in the Midlands.
"We booked a viewing for that same weekend. Upon arriving in Ashby, we instantly fell in love with the town - and as soon as we saw the house, we knew it was the one. We decided to make the move.
"I studied Computing at Southampton Solent University, where I achieved a First-Class degree. After graduating in 2015, I began my career in IT and currently working as an IT Cloud Consultant within the Telecommunications industry.
"I am passionate about supporting people in shaping their career paths and have been fortunate enough to encourage young people to pursue careers in fields that are not only valuable today but also critical for the future - especially as we step into an AI-driven world.
"My interest in Politics grew from a desire to give back to the community. I have a deep passion for young people, who represent the future generation. The world deserves the best, and that journey begins with our children. I care deeply about education and future career opportunities for them.
"Over the years, I have mentored individuals into various career paths through guidance and personal support. As Mayor, I hope to use my platform to ensure young people in Ashby have access to the best options for a thriving future.
"My chosen charities are Inspire Youth Collective and the Rotary Club, and I look forward to working with them to strengthen community engagement.
"I am excited about the year ahead and look forward to being an active, positive presence in Ashby de la Zouch."
Share:
