The new Lord Mayor and Sheriff of Chester have been named, ahead of the official ceremony this Friday (23 May).

The office of Lord Mayor of Chester dates back to 1238.

Cllr Sherin Akhtar will become the new Lord Mayor of Chester, making history as the first female Lord Mayor to wear the hijab.

Currently representing Upton ward and a Chester Charter Trustee, she was born and raised in the UK, now living in Chester with her family.

Originally from Oldham, she brings with her a strong cultural identity - shaped by her upbringing and deep commitment to public service.

The current Lord Mayor, Cllr Razia Daniels, born in Tanzania and a resident of Chester since 1985, will pass the chain of office in what is expected to be a memorable ceremony.

During the ceremony, the new Sheriff of Chester will also be invested.  

Cllr Simon Eardley, representing Saughall and Mollington, will become the 1372nd Sheriff of Chester.

The office of Sheriff of Chester is even older than that Lord Mayor, with the first recorded Sheriff of Chester dated to 1121. 

Cllr Eardley intends to demonstrate particular support and encouragement to those working in crime prevention agencies, the emergency services, those maintaining law and order and the judiciary service. 

The role of Chester Town Clerk, which dates back to 1291, is now held by Delyth Curtis - Cheshire West and Chester Council's Chief Executive. 

As the 54th Town Clerk of Chester, she is the first woman to hold the position. 

She will preside over the ancient investiture ceremony, to be held at Chester Town Hall on 23 May 2025.

The new Lord Mayor's theme for the civic year is 'Pride in Place', - a focus on celebrating the people, places, and organisations that contribute to the city's strength and vibrancy.

Cllr Akhtar has expressed her commitment to engaging with local communities, schools, businesses, and voluntary groups, helping to reduce barriers and promote inclusivity across Chester.

As a Muslim woman who wears the hijab, she is proud to bring greater visibility to the city's diversity.

She said: "I am deeply humbled and proud to be appointed the 808th Lord Mayor of Chester.

"I will work hard to be a positive and progressive ambassador for our city.

"I look forward to continuing the ancient traditions associated with this historic office while promoting my theme of Pride in Place.

"My appointment represents a powerful statement of inclusion and identity.

"I hope it sends a positive message to young women everywhere—that with dedication and belief in yourself, you can achieve great things."

Cllr Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: "The council is proud that this post has now been held in succession by two female leaders from minority communities. 

"We warmly welcome Councillor Akhtar into this prestigious post and are proud to support her vision of inclusion, which reflects the increased diversity within our local community and, we hope, will continue to inspire a new generation of leaders.

The Dean of Chester Cathedral, the Very Revd Dr Tim Stratford, said: "Chester Cathedral will be delighted to welcome Councillor Akhtar to the role of Lord Mayor and will be proud to work and support her during her civic year."

To reflect her faith, the new Lord Mayor has chosen Imam Hafez Kamrul Alom, of Chester Blacon Mosque, as her Faith Leader.