Harrogate Town Council is pleased to announce that Councillor Viv Poskitt is expected to be formally elected as Mayor of Harrogate for the 2026/27 civic year at the Annual Meeting of the Town Council to be held on 6th May 2026.
Councillor Poskitt, who has served the community of Harrogate for many years, brings a wealth of professional and civic experience to the position. A GP who has practiced for over 25 years in the local area, she has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to public service, community wellbeing and partnership working across the town. Councillor Poskitt represents the Liberal Democrat party.
In support of her nomination, Councillor Poskitt shared a characteristically creative and personal reflection in the form of poetry, highlighting both her experience and enthusiasm for the role:
I’m used to chairing committees
from school to sixth form and universities.
I’ve given lectures and spoken to large audiences,
I’m not afraid of public speaking and all its nuances.
I’ve cleared my diary and saved annual leave
To allow me to attend events when we receive
Invitations from the public to cut a ribbon,
meet with groups or open a curtain.
I’ve always been one for spinning plates,
I can cycle through traffic without being late.
I feel I have the skills and ability
To carry out this role with dignity.
A sense of fun when appropriate,
I would love to represent Harrogate.
Known not only for her professional expertise but also for her creativity and community spirit, Councillor Poskitt has been an active supporter of local initiatives, including fundraising for community causes, promoting active travel, engaging with residents and promoting health and wellbeing across Harrogate.
Speaking ahead of Councillor Poskitt’s formal election, Councillor Chris Aldred the outgoing Mayor of Harrogate, for Harrogate Town Council said:
Councillor Poskitt brings dedication, compassion and a strong track record of public service.
Her unique blend of professional experience, community engagement and creativity reflects the values of Harrogate, and I look forward to handing the baton over to Viv so she can continue representing the town in the year ahead.
The formal election of the new Mayor will take place at the Annual Meeting of Harrogate Town Council. Subject to this confirmation, Councillor Poskitt will serve as Mayor of Harrogate for the 2026/27 civic year.
- The Annual Meeting of Harrogate Town Council, at which the election of the Mayor for the 2026/27 period happens, will take place at 7pm on Wednesday 6th May 2026 in Harrogate Civic Centre.
- The meeting is open to members of the public to attend.
- The Mayor is elected each May at the Annual Meeting of the Town Council.
- The main duties of the Mayor are to chair each meeting of the Full Council and to attend engagements representing the council and the town.
- The role of Mayor of Harrogate has existed in different formats since 1884, through the many iterations of local government in the area.
