Judy Fox becomes Peterborough’s first female Mayor in a decade
She's represented a ward for 21 years
Peterborough has a new mayor – and it's a proud moment for one of the city's own.
Councillor Judy Fox was officially sworn in today, becoming the 138th Mayor of Peterborough and the first woman to hold the role in 10 years.
Cllr Fox takes over from Marco Cereste and follows a long tradition of civic leadership dating back to 1874, when Henry Pearson Gates became the city’s first mayor. Her appointment is also special for personal reasons – her husband, Cllr John Fox, served as mayor from 2017 to 2018.
Speaking at the ceremony, Judy Fox said:
"I'm very honoured to be elected and I'm really looking forward to the year ahead. I'm Peterborian through and through, so to represent the city I was born and bred in means a great deal."
She has chosen to support two local charities during her term – Breast Cancer UK and Little Miracles, which supports families of children with additional needs, disabilities, and life-limiting conditions.
The role of mayor is now largely ceremonial, acting as a key figure at local events and official functions. While it no longer comes with executive powers, the position still plays a big part in community life and promoting the city both locally and beyond.
Cllr Fox said she’s especially looking forward to meeting people across the city and celebrating the positive work going on in Peterborough every day.