“Mayor’s Election Night – Friday 20th October 2017
Mayor’s Procession - Saturday 21st October 2017”
By Kate Fleming
Will this be the year for Leanne or will Evelyn be donning the robes in October? Will the people of Cuckfield be joining the international political arena and electing a female Mayor to lead and promote our rapidly developing community?
Right now the second question looks like a serious possibility, as Leanne Knapman and Evelyn Stenning are the sole runners for this prestigious role.
Our current mayor, Wilf Knighton, will also automatically become a candidate, but at the moment he is the only man standing. It is, however, early days and the opportunity to stand is still open. So gentlemen, this is your chance to represent your pub, club, organisation or simply stand as an independent candidate.
The two lady candidates are well known around the village, albeit in slightly different surroundings.
Leanne is a member of the Murphy family, many of whose names shine forth from the Mayors of Cuckfield board in the Queen’s Hall. She is a busy working mother of three, married to Gareth and involved with village life. She has been associated with The Independent State all her life and is a valued member of the committee, bringing new ideas and support to the organisation. Last year she took responsibility for the Pensioners Christmas Lunch, which was a resounding success. This will be her 13th attempt to become Mayor. Could this one be lucky for her?
Evelyn Stenning is a formidable opponent for Leanne or indeed any candidate. She is a retired midwife who has worked locally and so will know many of the population in an extremely special way! She is working tirelessly to gather funds for her campaign. She has organised coffee mornings, supervised a village quiz and has gathered together sponsors for a 5k walk. All this so that on the big night she can deliver the most money needed to become Mayor.
So, lads of Cuckfield, this is your moment to balance the competition. We need more males to accompany the reigning Wilf. This will lay the foundations for a competitive election night at The Rose and Crown and the ability for The Independent State of Cuckfield to create and sustain important activities for both young and old in our community