The mayor of Colchester sits as non-political chairman of Colchester City Council and serves as the civic representative of the borough. The mayoralty is customarily awarded to the most senior councillor of one of the political groups
Current mayor
The incumbent mayor of Colchester - from 27 May 2026 - is Cllr Andrew Ellis (Conservative)
The role of mayor
The mayor is the chief citizen and represents the city throughout their year of office. The Mace, carried by the Town Serjeant on ceremonial occasions and into the council chamber, is the symbol of that authority.
The mayor sits as non-political chairman of the council. The mayoralty is customarily awarded to the most senior councillor of one of the political groups, who take it in turn. The nomination is only rarely challenged. The mayor serves for a year as deputy mayor, usually in the municipal year prior.
The annual ceremony of the installation of a new mayor takes place each May, following the city council elections. The mayor's election takes place at the first meeting of the newly formed council.
The council, officers and members of the public gather in the Moot Hall to welcome the incoming mayor who takes the oath administered by the Town Clerk.
The mayor's parlour
The mayor's parlour is the Colchester Town Hall office where the mayor works, as well as the reception suite for visitors. The borough regalia (including The Mace), is also displayed there, and represents gifts to the town as well as items of the borough's heritage.
The mayor's charities
Throughout their year in office, the mayor organises events to raise money for their charities ("The Mayor's Charities").
List of Colchester mayors
Since 1836
Mayors subsequent to the passing of the Municipal Corporation Act 1835.