Councillor Hitesh Tailor was inaugurated as the new Mayor of Ealing at the borough’s annual council meeting in May.

He has been in local politics for more than a decade and, alongside his mayoral responsibilities, Councillor Tailor is a ward councillor in East Acton. He also works in housing policy at Redbridge Council.

Councillor Tailor said: “The role of mayor is a very important one. It will be enjoyable and equally engaging. I want to reach out to the different communities and organisations across the borough. I am also keen to visit schools and speak to pupils about the mayoralty. I’ve already had the pleasure of visiting Alec Reed Academy and I’m looking forward to visits to other schools.”

He is particularly proud of his British Indian heritage and of being the first mayor of Ealing of Hindu Gujarati heritage. He will be supported in his role by his niece, Miss Chaitali Tailor. Councillor Charan Sharma, councillor for Perivale ward, is the deputy mayor for the year.

The mayor has chosen Apple Play as his first charity for the year. Apple Play is a charity working with children, young people and families, based at the ARTBLOCK in Acton Park. It provides out-of-school activities and events and supports those who are experiencing disadvantage or difficulties in their lives.

It has been raising funds for a new kitchen. Read more about that in the upcoming autumn edition of Around Ealing magazine.

Here to serve

Over the coming weeks and months, the mayor of Ealing will be in attendance in formal robe and chain to preside over citizenship ceremonies, and community meetings, as well as chairing meetings at full council.