Mayor of Tunbridge Wells Julia Soyke hopes to have inspired a new generation into helping their community throughout her year in office.
With just a few days of her term remaining, the 2017/18 Mayor welcomed 45 members of charities for a reception in Town Hall on Thursday [May 10].
‘It has been hugely enjoyable, full of surprises and all of them have been positive, it has been excellent,’ Mrs Soyke told the Times, reflecting on her year.
‘I feel honoured to be carrying the chain. I believe in doing all I can for the community, but I never expected to become Mayor and it was a surprise to be asked.
‘Most of all I have enjoyed meeting young people for who local government seems far removed. I want them to feel that if they want to become Mayor it is something reachable.’
Mrs Soyke, who was recently re-elected as a Conservative councillor for Speldhurst & Bidborough ward, said she has put the community before politics throughout her time as Mayor.
She has played a key role in fundraising and supporting community groups, most notable her chosen charity DAVSS, as well as chairing council meetings. �
In her speech at the reception she stressed the difference that councillors and mayors can make.
‘It is too difficult to say what my greatest achievement was,’ continued the Mrs Soyke, who chaired the council meeting in December where the new Civic Complex and theatre was effectively decided.
‘The biggest challenge has been speaking without notes, that is something I did not quite master.
‘The council officers, without exception, have been very cheerful and supportive. It has also made me realise there are people everywhere doing an amazing amount of volunteering.’
Current Deputy Mayor Len Horwood will take over the role in a full council meeting on May 23 with Cllr James Scholes to become the new deputy.
Mrs Soyke said: ‘A good mayor likes people and they have to enjoy it. It is a lot of work but I regard it to be a pleasure. Even annual general meetings you get a feel for what is being done.
‘I hope people will see that I am very fond of the area and the people who make it a special place.’
