Miles Kenchington elected as Helston town mayor for 2023/2024

After reaching a unanimous vote from members of the council present at today's meeting, Miles Kenchington is now Helston’s town mayor and head of the town council for the 2023/2024 civic year, taking over the role from Tim Grattan-Kane who was voted in as mayor in 2021 and has held the chains of office for the last two years. 

Mr Kenchington will be joined by the new deputy mayor Cllr Nicola Boase, who wa again elected unanimously at the ceremony today. 

Describing his election as a “great honour” Mr Kenchington said it is something he has taken with both pride and humility.

Pupils from schools across Helston joined by Mr Kenchington (Image: Kate Lockett)

He then thanked Mr Grattan Kane for his work over the past two years.

He said: “Firstly, I’d like to thank our outgoing mayor Tim Grattan Kane. I have had the pleasure of being his deputy during all this time.

“Tim has worked tirelessly for both the council and the town, and I am sure his commitment to the council will not diminish after today.”

Mr Kenchington then continued with thanks to his fellow council members for their nominations and votes, before thanking his wife Anne. 

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Methodist Minister  Rev Danny Reed was appointed mayor’s chaplain, whilst Stuart Harvey was appointed Sergeant-at-Mace.

Mr Kenchington praised the town's community organisations, sports, leisure groups, and charity support groups, which he said he is committed to supporting.

Miles joined by his wife (Image: Kate Lockett)

He has also revealed he will be supporting The Helston and Lizard Foodbanks this year as his mayor's charity. 

Before he ended his acceptance speech, Mr Kenchington thanked the public in the gallery to see him elected, including pupils from each of the four schools in Helston, Commander Chris Jones from 824 Squadron at RNAS Culdrose, and his friends and family.

“Finally, I am looking ahead. I know we were all disappointed not to be allocated the Level Up funding this year, but that is not the end of opportunities for us. I will be actively assisting in the regeneration of the town.”

Miles, his son Luke and grandson Noah (Image: Kate Lockett)

His speech ended with his take on a famous quote by a famous American ex-president: “Ask not what Helston can do for you – ask what you can do for Helston.”

Mr Kenchington will now be joined by his new deputy mayor, Nicola Boase who has pledged to do her very best to support Helston.

Nicola Boase and her husband John (Image: Kate Lockett)

Cllr Mike Thomas praised Mrs Boase’s contribution to the board. He said: “She has made a significant contribution that I believe has made a positive public reception to this council.”

Retiring mayor Mr Grattan-Kane was presented with a town plaque for his service to the town.