Tony Bell, a Labour councillor in the Hale End and Highams Park South ward, was appointed to the top ceremonial role at a meeting last week, reports Sebastian Mann, Local Democracy Reporter
Waltham Forest councillors have elected the new mayor for 2025/26.
Tony Bell, a Labour councillor in the Hale End and Highams Park South ward, was appointed to the top ceremonial role at a meeting last week.
He succeeded fellow Labour councillor Sharon Waldron, who was nominated for the position last May.
The role of borough mayor is largely ceremonial. He will act as Waltham Forest’s ‘first citizen’ when meeting dignitaries, royals, and other guests in the borough.
A more practical facet of the mayor’s job is to chair monthly council meetings. He oversees discussions and keeps order in the chamber.
Though he is a Labour councillor, the role of mayor is apolitical.
Cllr Bell said he wanted his mayoralty to be centred on two themes: fellowship and nature.
Throughout the year, he will raise money for three chosen charities.
They include the Highams Park Food Hub, which offers free food and drink to people struggling with loneliness. The new mayor called it an “incredible charity that addresses food aid throughout Waltham Forest by championing sustainable, nature-friendly growing practices”.
He will also support Haven House, adding: “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.”
Money will also go towards Walthamstow Wetlands, a 211-hectare site and Europe’s largest urban wetland reserve. He said: “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.”
Cllr Bell previously served as the chairman of the climate scrutiny committee, overseeing monthly meetings about transport and the environment in the borough.
He has worked as a teacher, teaching A-Level history.
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