Historic Ceremony Marks New Era for Beverley as Liberal Democrats Celebrate Surge in Diverse Female Leadership

In a ceremony steeped in centuries of tradition, Liberal Democrat Councillor Cheryl Giles has been officially elected as the 422nd Mayor of Beverley.

​The ancient Mayormaking ceremony, held within the historic walls of the Beverley Guildhall, did more than just install a new mayor; it marked a triumphant moment for the East Riding Liberal Democrats, showcasing a powerful and progressive shift toward diverse, female-led governance across the region.

​Adding to the party's success at the ceremony, Liberal Democrat Councillor Paul Coe was also elected as the new Deputy Mayor of Beverley, forming a dynamic and dedicated leadership team for the town.

​A Torch Passed, A Legacy Continued

​The election of Cllr Giles ensures that Beverley’s leadership remains in highly capable hands, seamlessly continuing a remarkable wave of female leadership in local government.

​The event highlighted an unprecedented alignment of women steering the region's future. As Liberal Democrat Cllr Linda Johnson commences her prestigious term as the newly appointed Chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, she joins a historic cohort. This includes Cllr Angela Walker (Mayor of Bridlington), Cllr Alison Healy (the outgoing female Mayor of Beverley), and Cllr Cheryl Payne (Lord Mayor of Kingston Upon Hull and Admiral of the Humber), who are all concurrently completing their own historic years in office.

​For the Liberal Democrats, this momentum is a direct result of a dedicated commitment to public service and inclusive representation, keeping Beverley firmly at the forefront of progressive local governance.

​Passion and Public Service

​Moving emotional tributes were paid during the ceremony, none more so than from fellow Liberal Democrat Councillor Denis Healy, who recalled meeting the new Mayor long before her political journey officially began.

​"I first met Cheryl nearly four years ago, before she was a councillor, and I remember very clearly her talking about Beverley Town Council and her desire to serve,". "Even at that first meeting, it was obvious to me that Cheryl had both the passion and the ability to make a real difference." Cllr Denis Healy 

Cllr Healy went on to praise her deep-rooted commitment to the community, highlighting how her initial ambitions have culminated in this historic appointment.

​"She spoke about wanting to give something back, about using her skills and experience to help people, and about her belief that she could contribute meaningfully to the life of the town. I think it’s fair to say that what we’re seeing today is the fulfilment of that ambition." Cllr Denis Healy 

​Championing Liberal Values

​As Mayor, Cllr Giles will serve as the first citizen of the town, a role that local Lib Dems are confident she, alongside Deputy Mayor Coe, will execute with trademark warmth and dedication.

​"Whether she is engaging with residents, supporting local organisations, or representing Beverley at civic events, Cheryl has a natural way of putting people at ease and making them feel welcome," "I am absolutely confident that Councillor Cheryl Giles will be an excellent Mayor for our town." Cllr Denis Healy 

​Beyond the borders of Beverley, the East Riding Liberal Democrats view this moment as a shining example of how the party's core values are transforming local politics for the better. The visible success of these leaders underscores an inspirational shift, proving that local democracy thrives and grows stronger when it embraces diverse representation.

​Reflecting on the regional impact of these trailblazing women, Cllr Denis Healy concluded:

​“The women serving our communities across the region are a source of immense pride and inspiration. Their commitment to Liberal values and public service continues to make a real difference locally and nationally. From female mayors and chairs to councillors across East Riding and the UK, they prove that diverse voices strengthen both our party and our democracy.”