Farnham has officially welcomed its new Mayor, Councillor George Murray, at the annual Mayor Making ceremony held on Thursday 15 May at Farnham Town Council.
The event, attended by councillors, dignitaries, local residents, and civic guests, marked the official start of the new mayoral year. Outgoing Mayor, Councillor Brodie Mauluka was thanked for his dedicated service to the town over the past year, during which he represented Farnham at more than over 300 community events, supported numerous local initiatives and even performed with his band at several events.
Highlights of Councillor Mauluka’s mayoral year included the successes of Farnham’s men’s and women’s football and rugby clubs – all of whom were promoted this year, leading the celebrations for the 80thanniversary of D-Day and last week’s VE Day 80, receiving the award for Britain in Bloom 2024, hosting a visit by HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh GCVO, and meeting the public at many successful community events. Councillor Mauluka is an advocate for younger people and during his year he raised funds and awareness for 40Degreez and Charlie’s Promise – charities which he has committed to continuing to support.
In recognition of his service, Councillor Mauluka was presented with a special commemorative gift. The specially commissioned vases represent the colours of the Malawian flag which is where the former Mayor was born and grew up. He also received a photo album showing the highlights of his year.
As the new Mayor of Farnham, Councillor George Murray brings with him extensive experience and a deep connection to the local community both as ward councillor and a member of the business community. Representing the Bourne ward, he has been a member of Farnham Town Council since 2023.
In his acceptance speech, Councillor Murray said: “For me to be standing here today, as Mayor of my adopted town, is beyond anything I could ever have imagined in life. This moment is not mine alone – it belongs to all those who have walked this journey with me and to the friends who’ve become like family, I am eternally grateful.
“I look forward to supporting all community groups across Farnham and being a champion for the incredible work that everyone does in making their town a better place for all.”
As Mayor, Councillor Murray has chosen to support Hale Youth Club’s ‘Sandy Stars’ football team. He also wants to build on Farnham Town Council’s work with young people and hold a special event that will give Farnham’s youth a voice.
Cllr Murray will be supported during his mayoral year by his wife, Jacoba Murray, as Mayoress, and by Deputy Mayor Councillor Graham White. Residents wishing to invite the Mayor or Deputy Mayor to events can download a request form from the council’s website at www.farnham.gov.uk/mayor, emailmayor@farnham.gov.uk or call 01252 712667.
