Rushcliffe Borough Council (RBC) is pleased to announce Cllr John Cottee as the new Mayor of Rushcliffe for the forthcoming 12 months.
In a ceremony in the Council Chamber at Rushcliffe Arena on Thursday 22 May, he accepted the position for 2025/26 from incumbent Cllr Andy Brown as part of the authority’s Annual Council meeting.
Cllr Cottee was first elected in 1999 and currently represents the Keyworth and Wolds ward. As the ‘first citizen’ of the Borough, the Mayor will attend many official engagements during his term of office this year.
He has nominated Richard Whitehead Foundation as his Mayoral Charity for the year. The foundation, established in 2021 by Paralympic Gold Medallist Richard Whitehead MBE, supports disabled people to lead happier and healthier lives through the power of sport.
Richard is passionate about creating a world which is inclusive and accessible for all and is committed to advocating for children, young people and adults who live with disabilities.
Cllr Cottee has always been passionate about sport, played football locally for many years and was a prominent member of the Foundation’s organising committee.
It promotes inclusivity and accessibility, focusing on key areas such as education, community engagement, and breaking down barriers to sport and physical activity. Their project aims to build confidence, boost mental wellbeing and foster inclusive sporting environments and employability for all.
Mr Mayor said: “I am honoured to be Mayor of Rushcliffe and represent the thousands of residents who live in the Borough. I look forward to meeting and working with the many different people and groups who are at the heartbeat of our communities.
“I’m delighted to support the Richard Whitehead Foundation as my chosen charity. Their work is truly inspiring, empowering disabled people through sport and inclusive initiatives.
“Please support them in the next 12 months when I’m Mayor and beyond.”
Cllr Richard Butler was elected as Deputy Mayor for the next 12 months and expressed his honour of being entrusted with the role, 25 years on from his father Cllr Roy Butler becoming Mayor.
To find out more about the Richard White Foundation visit https://www.whitehead.foundation/