The Mayor

Each year, the council elects a councillor to serve as Mayor for twelve months.

The Mayor is the borough's civic and ceremonial head for a year and during that time acts as chair of full council meetings.

The Mayor represents Waltham Forest at public, civic and ceremonial events. The Mayor's role extends to include events and organisations that support the community. The Mayor also entertains guests in the Mayor's parlour for both formal and informal events.

Together with the King’s representative, the deputy lieutenant, the Mayor receives members of the royal family and VIPs during official visits to the area.

In 2025 to 2026, the Mayor of Waltham Forest, Cllr Tony Bell, will fundraise in support of three vital, local charities: Highams Park Food Hub, Haven House and Walthamstow Wetlands. The Mayor will continue his efforts to raise awareness of the importance of fellowship and nature.  
 
Cllr Tony Bell explained: 

As Mayor, I am devoted to supporting three charities which represent my mayoral themes, fellowship and nature; Highams Park Food Hub, Haven House and Walthamstow Wetlands. 

Highams Park Food Hub is an incredible charity that addresses food aid throughout Waltham Forest by championing sustainable, nature-friendly growing practices. The charity became the centre of an operation that supported those who could not get out of their houses to buy food during Covid. The Hub Cafe offers free drinks and food in order to tackle isolation and loneliness.  

Haven House is an extraordinary charity, located in Waltham Forest’s old White House in Forest Grounds. Set up in the early part of this century, their work in providing specialist care and support for babies and children as well as providing emotional support to families navigating challenging times, continues to make a significant impact in the community. 

Walthamstow Wetlands is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a great haven for wildlife in the borough. Walthamstow Wetlands is a 211 hectare site and is Europe’s largest wetland. The number five reservoir is home to a large number of cormorants including the great crested grebe, pochard, tufted duck just to name a few. My decision to support this charity stems from my passion for nature, sustainability and wildlife.   

I am pleased to collaborate with these three charities which resonate strongly with me for this next municipal year.

Cllr Tony Bell will be supported by his wife, Ginette, as Mayoress. 

To invite the Mayor of Waltham Forest to your event, please email the Mayor’s office: mayor@walthamforest.gov.uk.  

The Mayor’s office will then send you a protocol form to complete.  

To donate to the Mayor’s Charity please use the button below.

The Mayor is eager to support appropriate public events, so to invite him, please complete and return:

• Attend in person protocol form (Word)
• Participate virtually protocol form (Word)

If staff members are unavailable for any reason at 020 8496 4399, you may leave a telephone message.  Phone messages will usually be answered within one working day, or the next working day if left after 5.30pm or over the weekend.