A former nurse and first responder has been chosen as the new Mayor of Havant.
Rosy Raines, Councillor for Hayling East ward was sworn in as the 48th first citizen of the borough during today’s Annual Council Meeting and Mayor Making ceremony.
Councillor Raines will be representing the borough over the next 12 months with her Consort, husband Graham Raines.
The Mayor said: “It will be a privilege to serve as the Mayor of Havant and I can’t wait to get started in my new role representing the people in the borough.
“Being the Mayor is a fantastic opportunity to work closely with our communities and find out about the positive difference many people, groups and organisations make to our local communities. It’s also a chance to thank them for their hard work.”
Rosy Raines has lived on Hayling Island for more than 50 years, attending local schools before starting her life-long career in nursing. She became a community first responder and was one of the longest serving in Hampshire before retiring, whilst also teaching first aid in her spare time.
The Mayor of Havant's chosen charity for 2021-22 is the RNLI - Royal National Lifeboat Institution with all money raised being ring-fenced for Hayling Island.
Councillor Rosy Raines’ appointment marks the end of the Mayoral year for the borough’s youngest mayor Councillor Prad Bains.
Councillor Prad Bains said: “My Mayoral year has been like no other due to the pandemic but nevertheless I’ve thoroughly enjoyed seeing the fantastic work our communities have been doing to support one another through an extraordinary year.
“Thank you to every person, group and business I’ve been able to safely visit or meet online during my Mayoral year and for the outstanding work they have done for the people of the borough.
‘May I also thank everyone who donated to my charity and who has helped to raise more than £13,500 for Hannah’s Holiday Homes.
“As I hand the chains over, I wish the new Mayor of Havant and her Consort all the best in their roles.”
Taking the role of Deputy Mayor is Councillor Diana Patrick, who will be supported by her Consort James Spencer.
Cadets representing the Army, Navy and Airforce Training Corps will continue to support the Mayor and Deputy Mayor on selected civic occasions. They are:
- Army Cadet - Lance Cpl Josh Loman of 8 Flight Leigh Park
- Air Cadet - Flight Sergeant Poppy Metherell
- Independent Cadet Force 101 Troop - Cadet Lisa Orchard
- Independent Cadet Force 101 Troop – Cadet Freddy Stewart
More details about the Mayor of Havant are available on our website or follow the Mayor of Havant on Facebook.