It was a game of musical chairs at Whitehill & Bordon Town Council, as three different councillors took turns in chairing a recent meeting.

With Mayor James Fryer unable to attend, Deputy Mayor Lynn Malikoff-Johnston opened the session on Thursday, May 8. The meeting, held ahead of the upcoming VE Day beacon lighting ceremony at Whitehill Village Hall, focused on selecting the council’s leadership team for the 2025/26 year.

Councillors elected a new leader, deputy leader, mayor, and deputy mayor to guide both council business and ceremonial duties.

Cllr Andy Tree, Leader of the Whitehill & Bordon Community Party, was unanimously re-elected as Leader of the Town Council—his seventh consecutive year at the helm.

Cllr Tree said: “I’m pleased to continue serving as Leader of the Council. Even in my seventh year, I remain as motivated as ever to lead, listen, and support our community to the best of my ability.”

He also nominated his long-serving deputy, Cllr Catherine Clark, for re-election as deputy leader. She was again unanimously approved—but her responsibilities didn’t stop there. Clark was also chosen to take on the ceremonial role of Mayor of Whitehill & Bordon, succeeding James Fryer.

Cllr Clark said: “I’m looking forward to getting out in the town where I live and meeting with residents at the fantastic events that are organised locally. I think this year will be a busy one with local beer and gin festivals and the Soap Box Derby to name a few.”

The chain of deputy mayor was passed from Lynn Malikoff-Johnston to Cllr Linda Delve, who will serve as deputy mayor for 2025/26.

Cllr Clark briefly took over chairing duties before leaving to present an awards night, giving newly appointed Deputy Mayor Linda Delve an early opportunity to step into her new role.

Meanwhile, outgoing Deputy Mayor Lynn Malikoff-Johnston was recognised for her service with a certificate of appreciation from the council.

The newly elected team now looks ahead to a packed year of community events and civic engagement.