Hebden Royd Town Council is proud to announce the appointment of Councillor Keith Butterick as the new Mayor for the 2025–2026 civic year. The appointment was formally made during the Annual Meeting of the Town Council on 20 May 2025, following nomination by fellow Hebden Royd Councillors. Cllr. Steve Woodhead was also nominated as Deputy Mayor.
Cllr Butterick accepted the Mayoral role and signed the formal Declaration of Acceptance of Office. He named his wife, Lorna Butterick, as his consort for the year. In his opening address, he emphasised the value of community cohesion and outlined his commitment to championing local causes throughout his term:
“Becoming Mayor of Hebden Royd is a real privilege. Though I’m a relatively recent resident of Mytholmroyd, my roots in Calderdale run deep, and I’m committed to giving back to the communities that have shaped me. My career has always been about communication, listening, and engagement – values I intend to carry forward in this role.
As Mayor, I’m especially keen to support the White Ribbon Campaign -a vital cause that challenges violence against women and promotes respect and equality. I look forward to championing this work and engaging with residents across Hebden Royd in the year ahead.”
One of his first duties as Mayor was to introduce the recipients of the Service to the Community Awards 2024/25, celebrating exceptional contributions to life in Hebden Royd. Neil Diment was honoured with the Service to the Community Award, having been nominated by Cllr Nikki Harvey in recognition of his voluntary work, particularly in relation to the High Hirst Woodmeadow Project. His professional background in ancient hay meadows and dedication to biodiversity has contributed to the transformation of the site into a thriving hub of ecological and community engagement. Neil also co-founded the Calder Youth Folk Group in 2018, offering inclusive musical opportunities to local children.
In accepting the award, Neil thanked his fellow volunteers and committee members and acknowledged the Town Council for its support in nurturing conservation and education in the area.
The Youth Section of the Service to the Community Award was presented to the Happy Valley Pride Youth Engagement Programme. Nominated by Cllr Barry Young, the group was recognised and appreciated for their inclusive events – particularly Electric Bloom, a new free music event held at the Trades Club, Hebden Bridge, providing a safe and creative space for young people aged 11 to 18. Terry Logan and Adam Pryce accepted the award on behalf of the group. Terry delivered heartfelt thanks from the team and shared a message from the youth leader, who was unable to attend due to ongoing GCSE exams.
The meeting also included a touching farewell from the outgoing Mayor, Cllr Pat Fraser, who reflected on her mayoral year and its many highlights, including the Kenneth Kaberry Awards, her Peace-themed Civic Service, and fundraising efforts which culminated in a £2,130 donation to the Hebden Bridge Saints under 15’s Girls Football Team. She expressed gratitude to her fellow councillors and offered best wishes to her successor, Cllr Butterick.
Looking ahead, Cllr Butterick announced that his chosen Mayor’s Charity for 2025/26 will be the White Ribbon Campaign – a global initiative engaging men and boys to end violence against women and promote gender equality. He described the campaign as “a cause close to my heart” and urged the community to support its mission throughout the year.
The meeting concluded with background music from local guitarist Steve Tynan and refreshments.
