The Listing is pleased to welcome our new Town Mayor, Councillor John Rees.
John moved to Royston with his wife Sheila from a West London suburb 9 years ago when he retired from a stressful job with Transport for London. They chose Royston because of its quiet rural location, yet within easy reach of larger towns and with good rail links to London. It wasn’t long before they became aware of the strength of the local community and how precious the town is to its residents. In John’s words, Royston is “a beautiful town with beautiful people”
Over the last nine years, John has become more and more involved with the local community and was lucky to be elected to the Town Council in 2022, and sees his role as an honour.
As your Mayor, John looks forward to working on your behalf and intends to do his utmost to be even more involved with the community and businesses of Royston. In the coming year he will be supporting and promoting local community groups, especially those with a minority appeal. He’s also keen to promote local businesses especially those that are “hidden” away from the Town Centre.
His chosen charities for this civic year are The Mayor’s Community Trust Fund and Home Start – Royston, Buntingford & South Cambs.
What’s your favourite local place to eat?
My favourite place to eat is just about anywhere in Royston! The diverse cuisines give me many options but I have to confess a predilection for Thai food.
What do you like about shopping in Royston?
Despite being a small town, Royston has a surprising variety of shopping opportunities. I love the fact that the number of independent local traders is growing. I also have a fondness for the Market and you can usually find me there very early Saturday mornings buying my fruit and veg and then having breakfast in the Market’s pop-up café.
How do you like to spend your weekends?
Being retired, weekends and Bank Holidays don’t exist! However, I do enjoy watching motor racing on TV, meeting up with family and friends or just chilling. Weekends also give me a chance to catch up with recording my shows for Royston Radio.
What is your most valued possession?
Our dog Gumbo, although in reality he’s more of a family member than a possession.
Night in or night out?
Night out. Definitely. Some great live music, comedy or a lovely meal.
What is your greatest fear?
The increasing hostilities across the globe
What has been the most valuable life lesson that you have learnt?
Ignore negative comments about yourself from others
Finally, which four people you would invite to dinner and why? (and who would do the cooking?!)
Jimmy Carr for the comedy
Rick Wakeman for music and raconteuring
Aneurin Bevan to thank him for the NHS
Gordon Ramsey – to watch over me whilst I do the cooking!
