Councillor David Swinhoe has been elected as the new Mayor of Blyth at the Annual Meeting of Blyth Town Council, held on 13 May. He will be supported throughout the year by Councillor Rick Baker, who was appointed Deputy Mayor.

In his first speech as Mayor, Councillor Swinhoe expressed his gratitude for the honour, thanked outgoing Mayor Aileen Barrass for her service, and shared a personal reflection on his Northumbrian heritage.

“I trace my family name to the 12th century,” he said. “The name Swinhoe is little known, but it appears in Northumberland’s history — from the village of Swinhoe near Beadnell, to roles in defending the borderlands during centuries of conflict. My ancestors served kings, fought in historic battles like Flodden, and even contributed poetry and plays during imprisonment in the Tower of London.”

His speech painted a vivid picture of his family's long-standing connection to the region, highlighting historical figures such as Gilbert Swinhoe, a High Sheriff of Northumberland and military leader during the turbulent Border Wars, and James Swinhoe, exiled to Jamaica after involvement in the religious conflicts of the 16th century.

Councillor Swinhoe concluded with a forward-looking message:

“My quest to enter the history books also starts here today. My aim is to boost the town of Blyth, to lead with openness and transparency, and to give our very best at Blyth Town Council. We want to show our hearts are truly in it — for a better place to live, for everyone.”

The new Mayor’s blend of historic perspective and modern ambition has set the tone for a year of renewed energy and civic pride in what he calls “the biggest and most historic town in Northumberland.”

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