Wednesday, 4 June 2025
Town Council appoints new Mayor and celebrates community champions
Hebden Royd Town Council has formally elected Cllr Keith Butterick as Mayor for the 2025–2026 civic year. The appointment was made during the Annual Meeting of the Town Council, held on Tuesday 20 May 2025 at Hebden Bridge Town Hall. Cllr Steve Woodhead was also appointed as Deputy Mayor.
Cllr Butterick accepted the role and signed the official Declaration of Acceptance of Office. He has named his wife, Mrs Lorna Butterick, as his consort for the year. In his inaugural address, Cllr Butterick spoke of the importance of community cohesion and reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for local causes:
"Becoming Mayor of Hebden Royd is a real privilege. Though I'm a relatively recent resident of Mytholmroyd, my roots in Calderdale run deep, and I'm committed to giving back to the communities that have shaped me. My career has always been about communication, listening, and engagement – values I intend to carry forward in this role.
"As Mayor, I'm especially keen to support the White Ribbon Campaign - a vital cause that challenges violence against women and promotes respect and equality. I look forward to championing this work and engaging with residents across Hebden Royd in the year ahead."
Cllr Butterick confirmed the campaign will be the focus of his mayoral fundraising efforts throughout the year.
A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the Service to the Community Awards 2024/25, recognising outstanding voluntary contributions across Hebden Royd.
Cllr Nikki Harvey with Neil Diment holding his award
Neil Diment was awarded the Service to the Community Award, following a nomination by Cllr Nikki Harvey. Mr Diment was recognised for his significant voluntary work, notably with the High Hirst Woodmeadow Project. With a professional background in ancient hay meadows and biodiversity, he has been instrumental in transforming the site into a vibrant centre for ecological education and community involvement. He is also co-founder of the Calder Youth Folk Group, which has provided inclusive musical opportunities for young people since 2018.
In accepting the award, Mr Diment expressed gratitude to his fellow volunteers, committee members, and the Town Council for their ongoing support.
The Youth Section of the Service to the Community Award was presented to the Happy Valley Pride Youth Engagement Programme, following nomination by Cllr Barry Young. (See photo above). The group was commended for delivering inclusive and empowering events for young people, particularly Electric Bloom - a new, free music event hosted at the Trades Club in Hebden Bridge for those aged 11 to 18. The award was accepted by Terry Logan and Adam Pryce on behalf of the group. Ms Logan shared a message of thanks from the youth leader, who was unable to attend due to GCSE examinations.
The meeting also marked the conclusion of Cllr Pat Fraser's term as Mayor. In her farewell address, she reflected on a memorable year that included the Kenneth Kaberry Awards, a Peace-themed Civic Service, and fundraising initiatives that resulted in a £2,130 donation to the Hebden Bridge Saints under 15's Girls Football Team. She extended her thanks to colleagues and expressed her full support for her successor.
The evening concluded with a performance by local guitarist Steve Tynan, accompanied by light refreshments.