WILTON has a new mayor with expertise in retail, banking and technology after Cllr Chris Harrison was elected at a full council meeting yesterday evening.

Outgoing mayor Cllr Alexandra Boyd announced she was stepping down due to health reasons last month and described the evening as “a real milestone full of emotion, reflection and a good dose of Wilton pride”.

Cllr Harrison, who has served as a town councillor since January 2024 and deputy mayor since May 2025, will serve until the end of the mayoral term – May 2026.

He has lived in Wilton for eight years and the town council says he brings “a wealth of experience in project delivery and leadership across the retail, banking and technology sectors”.

Cllr Charlotte Blackman, who has served as a town councillor since 2002, was elected deputy mayor.

Now retired, she has a background in insurance and complaints handling and has led several community projects, including the outdoor gym at Castle Meadow.

A council spokesperson said: “Our new mayor and deputy mayor will be instrumental in leading our council during the remainder of this term, as we work towards some ambitious plans to improve the town.”

Cllr Charlotte Blackman is now deputy mayor.

Cllr Boyd was “deeply touched” to receive her former mayor of Wilton badge and continues as a town councillor, supporting events when health allows.

She said: “It has been the honour of my life to serve this town, and I remain as committed as ever to Wilton and its wonderful community.”

Cllr Boyd has stepped down as mayor.

Wilton Town Council currently has a vacancy for a councillor, who will be appointed through co-option, and is asking residents to put themselves forward.

Contact the council by emailing clerk@wiltontowncouncil.gov.uk or calling 01722 742093.