First ever Lord Mayor Honours set to recognise servants of our city

Stars of sport, stage, screen and local communities are to be honoured for their contribution to the life of our city at the first ever Lord Mayor’s Honours next month.

Residents who have made a difference in their communities and those from outside our city who’ve contributed to its success will be rubbing shoulders with those from Swansea who’ve gone on to achieve exceptional success in their chosen field on a UK or international stage.

The Lord Mayor’s Honours will be taking place at a special gala ball at the Brangwyn Hall on July 29 which is also expected to raise thousands of pounds for local charities.

David Hopkins, Lord Mayor of Swansea, said his ambition was to honour those who’ve helped put Swansea on the map and have made a significant contribution to the life and success of the city.

He said: “Swansea is one of the great British cities. We’ve much to celebrate and much to be proud of. Everyone knows we are Wales’ only Premier League city. Thanks to our local football club we are enjoying the benefits of having a worldwide profile.

“But what I hope the Lord Mayor’s Honours will show is that we’re world class in other areas of achievement too, such as music, charity, the arts and journalism.

“As Lord Mayor and a local councillor, I’m always out and about and I’ve never failed to be impressed by the endeavour, determination and talent of people who make an exceptional contribution to the world of business, education and public office.

“That’s why I’ve wanted to make sure the Lord Mayor’s Honours recognise local achievement. I also think people from beyond our boundaries who have had a positive impact on our city should be recognised.

“The honours will be our way of offering thanks to them for their work, which has contributed to raising the profile of this wonderful city across the world.”

The prestigious event will see people from all walks of life honoured, showcasing a wide range of exceptional people who’ve raised the city’s profile around the world and are helping make – in Dylan Thomas’ words – Swansea the best place.

All the honours being conferred will focus on the individuals and groups who have served Swansea in their chosen profession or calling. There will be honours for Services to Film, Services to the Armed Forces, Services to Charity and to the Community.

There will be honours too for Services to Journalism and Broadcasting and Services to Swansea’s Global Reputation. There will also be a special Lord Mayor’s Choice Award.

Cllr Hopkins said: “The Lord Mayor’s Honours will be a unique event because it will recognise people who have made a significant difference in Swansea. It will also benefit Maggie’s Cancer Centre, The Paul Popham Fund and The Prince’s Gate – the charities I’m supporting this year.”

The Lord Mayor’s Summer Honours Ball, which will be a full black tie and red carpet event, will feature a gala dinner and entertainment. Money raised on the evening from an auction and fundraising will support the Lord Mayor’s Charity Fund.

Tickets have been priced at £45pp or £450 for a table of 10. They are available from JR Events and Catering on 01792 635253.