Philip Leason takes up the civic chain once more as Stone’s Mayor

Stone’s new Mayor has been elected to represent the town—and for the latest First Citizen, it is the third time the mayor has worn the civic chain.

Outgoing Mayor Jim Davies handed over the chain of office to Philip Leason at the Stone Town Council annual meeting on Tuesday.

Councillor Ian Fordham, who proposed Councillor Leason as Town Mayor, highlighted his extensive knowledge of Stone’s history and how it would prove useful in his civic year. He added:

“He is well qualified – he has served as Town Mayor and recently as Stafford Borough Mayor.

“He has carried out both roles with a smile and his customary dignity and humour. Hopefully he and his consort will look forward to the next 12 months and we look forward to supporting them.”

Councillor Leason said:

“Thank you for giving me the honour of being elected Town Mayor. Being made Mayor in a town where I have lived all my life is particularly special.

“I was first elected Town Mayor in 1987, taking over from the late Harry Brunt. During my year it poured with rain on Civic Sunday and the culvert carrying Scotch Brook under Stafford Street burst and flooded the lower part of town.

“In 2007 I again took over from the late Harry Brunt, but this time there was no disaster and a sunny Civic Sunday. Hopefully it will be the same this year.

“In this role you realise what goes on in this town and the volunteers who give so freely of their time. We look forward to visiting the voluntary groups.

“It’s going to be an exciting year with the opening of the new theatre and heritage centre – two things that have been talked about for many years. And 37 years ago I was Town Mayor with Doug James as the Mayor of Stafford – I look forward to working with his son Frank James this year.”

Councillor Leason announced that his wife Edith would be his consort for the forthcoming civic year. He has chosen to support Stone First Responders and added that he also hoped to make donations to other charities.

Councillor Jason Metters was elected Deputy Mayor for the year. Councillor Jill Hood, who nominated him, said:

“He is an excellent young man and he works with humility, common sense and great intelligence. He is very keen and interested in our environment.

“I think it is really good for the town to once again have a young Deputy Mayor. I know he will work well with the youngsters and we have very exciting times ahead for the town – hopefully we will have some young Olympians bringing gold medals back to Stone.”