The Mayor is Stamford’s foremost citizen and the ceremonial leader of the town. In cases of unavailability or absence, the Mayor may be represented by the Deputy Mayor, or a senior Councillor (Past Mayor who is an active member of the council), as and when appropriate. The function of the Mayor is entirely apolitical. An effective Mayor can play a major rôle in promoting a positive image of Stamford and Stamford’s influence and importance at a local, regional, national and international level. A Mayor’s major contribution to the rôle is to focus on the promotion, development and execution of the Town Council’s vision and core objectives. Residents of Stamford rightfully expect the highest standards of conduct and impartiality in their Mayor and that the incumbent will proactively engage upon a wide range of duties and activities on their behalf during the mayoral year of office.
Mayor Andrew Croft or Cllr Andy!
I was born in Stamford, educated at Bluecoat Primary and Stamford School. I now live in the Essendine area. I have been married for over forty years to Ann, my wife and we have two sons, Joseph and Reuben. Ann is currently a Primary School Head Teacher, working in an International School in Tunisia but previously worked locally at Copthill School, Stamford and Brooke Priory, Oakham.
After Higher Education, I worked in Industry as an Industrial Chemist, firstly at British Sugar Research Labs and latterly at the local Cement Works at Ketton, until I chose early retirement. During my semi – retirement, I have worked in the Science Departments at Stamford School and the High School.
For 20 years, I independently ran and managed the Cellar Bar at Stamford Arts Centre. That is where I met with local councillors and was invited to join the council by standing for local election. I became an Independent councillor in St Mary’s ward in 2015. Now in my 9th Year on Stamford Town Council, after success in three elections, I was unanimously voted Mayor and Chair of Stamford Town Council in May 2023.
My main hobbies are writing and recording music and writing poetry – and bringing people together from any and all backgrounds. This is what I did at the Cellar Bar creating a mixed community over twenty years. My hope is to reach out to and include as wide a range of people as I can in many ways and activities in my Mayoral year. Bringing people together is not easy but not trying is no excuse – and I won’t waste my opportunity this year.
AC
