St Austell’s mayor-making ceremony took place at Holy Trinity Church last Wednesday, with out-going mayor Andrea Lanxon officially handing over her robes to incoming mayor Crystal Pearce. 

It was a chance to reflect upon a momentous mayoral year, which encompassed both the Platinum Jubilee and funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, followed by the proclamation and coronation of King Charles III; three prime ministers; and in the wider world, war in Ukraine, devastating floods in Pakistan and earthquake in Turkey.

Closer to home, she presided over the centenary of St Austell Rotary Club and the completion of the town centre revitalisation plans. These include a major refurbishment of Bethel Park, which started last week, and a magnificent rooftop garden on the site of the former Tesco car park. 

In addition, more than 100 new trees were planted, electric charging points and bikes were made available, and over £3,000 was raised for her chosen mayoral charity, St John’s Ambulance in St Austell. 

Ms Lanxon addressed 111 people in attendance, including her fellow town councillors, mayors and deputy mayors from 17 town and parish councils across Cornwall, and community group representatives. 

She apologised for gathering everyone in their robes on the hottest day of the year to date. 

“It has been a great honour and pleasure to represent my home town as mayor,” she said. “I have handed over the reins to Crystal Pearce and wish her every success for an enjoyable term of office. I will continue as an active member of council for Poltair and Mount Charles.” 

Ms Pearce joked that while the mayoral robes were “just right” for her predecessor, “for me they are touching the floor. But I hope we share the same desire to work for St Austell and be good members of the community, doing our very best for everyone. 

“Andrea has had an amazing year, a heroic year in the life of our community. No other mayor for many a long year has had to see a jubilee, a funeral and a proclamation. She did us proud.” 

Ms Pearce’s deputy mayor, Julian Young, was unable to attend due to work commitments and was represented by his consort, Jenny Lingham. 

Their chosen mayoral charity is Kernow Young Carers. 

The Mayoral Cadets were introduced as Abigail Perrott, 14, from Roche and Isabelle Cartwright, 15, from St Austell. Both are members of the Air Cadets 1225 St Austell Squadron. 

Musical entertainment was provided by Notability choir and Sonata harp and vocal quartet. A buffet was provided by Manor Made.