Councillor Sue Gower MBE JP, who represents Bexleyheath Ward, became the London Borough of Bexley’s 60th Mayor at the Council’s Annual Meeting today (22 May).

The new Consort is her husband, Mr Darren Tobin. Councillor Gower is the 72th person to hold the title of Mayor of Bexley since the old Borough of Bexley received its charter in 1937.

Councillor Gower moved to Bexley in 1984 and has deep roots in the community. Her sons, daughter and grandson were all born in Bexley and attended local schools, as did her husband.

Councillor Gower has been a dedicated public servant, having served as a local Justice of the Peace since 2000. She was elected as Councillor for Bexleyheath Ward in 2018, served as Deputy Mayor from 2020-21 and was the Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing from 2021-2024.

In 2009, Councillor Gower was honoured with an MBE for her voluntary service to disabled children and young people in Bexley. She continues to be an active supporter of the local community. Alongside her mayoral duties, she works as a Local Government Officer and is also an Independent Celebrant.

The Mayor said:

I am deeply honoured to serve as the Mayor of Bexley. This community has been my home for decades and is very special to me. I am committed to working hard to support our residents in any way I can."

The Mayor has appointed Councillor Lisa Jane Moore, who represents Longlands Ward, as her Deputy Mayor and Mr Justin Moore will be her Consort. The Mayor has appointed Mr Paul Weston from New Generation Church as her Chaplain.

The Mayor has announced that she will be working throughout her Mayoral year to raise funds for the local charity, ‘Counselling Matters Bexley’. She has also stated alongside Counselling Matters Bexley she will also be supporting other local charities and good causes throughout the year.