Councillor Calum Stewart, who represents Farnborough’s Knellwood ward, is the new Mayor of Rushmoor for the 2025/26 year.

Mayor of Rushmoor 2025-26 Councillor Calum Stewart in his robes, sitting at his deskThe Borough’s new Mayor, educated at what was formerly The Connaught School in Aldershot, The Sixth Form College Farnborough, and the University of York, will this year focus on young people and the unsung heroes who contribute so much to the community. He currently works as the Chief Executive Officer of Citizens Advice Rushmoor.

Councillor Peter Cullum, a St John’s ward councillor in Farnborough, has been chosen as his deputy.

The appointments were unanimously approved at the Annual Council meeting held at the council offices on Tuesday (20 May).

Councillor Stewart, aged 31, has been a councillor for six years and has previously served as Chairman of the Council’s Development Management Committee.

His proposer, North Town Councillor Keith Dibble, said: “I have known his family for 40 years, and they are a kind and loving family with a spirit to support the community and a very strong work ethic. Calum has inherited these values. He will be an outstanding first citizen of the Borough."

His seconder, Aldershot Park Councillor, Sophie Porter, said: “I had the pleasure of visiting Alderwood recently and told the students that their new Mayor once sat where they do. He will be an aspirational character to the students and living proof that with dedication and heart, anything is possible.”

The new Mayor said “Rushmoor is where I was born and raised. The borough is shaping who I am, and it’s given me opportunity, community, and a strong sense of belonging. To now serve as Mayor of the very place that gave me so much feels both surreal and deeply meaningful.

“I will do my very best to foster an environment of civility, of compassion, and of constructive dialogue – both here in the chamber, and outside. We may not always agree, but I strongly believe we all want what’s best for our community and that common ground is where real progress begins. I hope to lead by example and encourage others to listen more, judge less, and work together. 

“To the people of Rushmoor - thank you for this incredible opportunity. I will carry out my duties with integrity, pride, and an unwavering commitment to serving our community.”

As part of his Mayoral year, Councillor Stewart will be relaunching the former Rushmoor Community Award as the Mayor’s Award, to recognise the extraordinary contributions of those who go above and beyond for the community in Aldershot and Farnborough.

At every full council meeting, the award will be presented to a local individual or group that exemplifies kindness, service, and civic pride.  Nominations will be launched shortly and will be open to all.

The new Mayor will also be setting up a dedicated fund in collaboration with Alderwood School, aimed at helping to finance aspirational programmes for its students. This could include leadership development, academic challenges, access to the arts, further and higher education opportunities, or activities around personal growth.

Councillor Stewart extended his thanks to the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Mara Makunura for the service she had given over the last year and for her “grace, energy, and commitment.”


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