Cheltenham has officially welcomed its new mayor this May 2026, with four local people being awarded Cheltenham Borough Council's highest honours at his inauguration ceremony.
Councillor Martin Horwood becomes the borough's new mayor, a role that will see him chair the council and represent the authority at business and charity events throughout the year, with his fellow councillor Mike Collins becoming deputy mayor.
Succeeding Dr David Willingham in the role, Martin has selected three charities as the focus of his fundraising efforts in 2026: Art for All Mental Health, Young Gloucestershire and ITSA Digital Trust.
His inauguration took placed at Cheltenham Town Hall this week, at a 'packed' event featuring performances from Indian classical dancer Gyatiri Gauri Shankar, local poet Chloë Jacquet, young dancers from Corraine Collins Dance Studios and Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts young performer of 2025, singer Jess Abiona.
Martin said: 'It is the honour of my life to have been elected mayor of my home town by my fellow councillors. I have promised to be a mayor for all communities in our wonderful town.
'I want to do everything I can to support my three chosen charities who do fantastic work helping young people, mental wellbeing and access to technology. I’m really looking forward to meeting residents, community groups and businesses over the coming year.'
Following the ceremony, the council also appointed three honorary freeman – the highest award it can bestow, granted to local people who have made 'an outstanding commitment to the local community and through their service, dedication and expertise have been able to enhance the standing of Cheltenham and its residents'.
Dave Bath was honoured for his 'years of selfless service' as a volunteer, providing maintenance work for Cheltenham Saracens Football Club, organising a community food project during the pandemic, and being a leading figure in the project to regenerate St Peter's and The Moors.
Clare Seed received the award in recognition of her work with Public Hearts CIC, establishing a network of over 116 publicly accessible defibrillators across Cheltenham.
And recognising his 'outstanding' contribution to Cheltenham Town Football Club, Steve Cotterill – who was born and raised in Cheltenham – received the award for his achievements across two spells as manager, including promotion to the Football League, and stabilising the team and strengthening connection with fans since his return in 2025.
The ceremony also included the presentation of the council's medal of honour for 2026, which was awarded to Leigh Norwood, in recognition of his services to the Cheltenham Samaritans.
Leader of the council Rowena Hay said: 'These awards reflect the very best of Cheltenham. Whether through community service, sport or charity, our recipients have each played an important role in helping our borough thrive.'
