Barbara Corrigan formally introduced to the town as the mayor at annual Mayor Sunday event at Newark Town Hall

The town’s new mayor was welcomed to the role at the official Mayor’s Sunday service over the weekend.

Barbara Corrigan, who made Newark her home after moving from Australia to the UK, was appointed mayor at the annual mayor-making ceremony in the Town Hall ballroom.

She said that she was ‘truly honoured’ to stand as the mayor of ‘our wonderful town’ and that being mayor is not a privilege she takes lightly.

Leader of Newark Town Council, Dawn Campbell, gave a speech introducing the mayor to the town at the Mayor Making on Sunday, followed by the mayor’s speech.

During her speech, Barbara said that to be elected as Mayor of a town that has welcomed her so warmly is “both humbling and an incredible honour”.

“I have met so many amazing people who call Newark home, some of whom were lucky enough to be born and raised here, and others who, like me, have had the joyful experience of discovering this beautiful town in their lifetime,” she said.

“What stands out to me most is the openness and generosity of spirit that defines Newark. It’s a testament to the character of this town and its residents that everyone I’ve met, regardless of where they’ve come from, has felt embraced and valued.

“There’s a unique sense of belonging here, a shared understanding that no matter where you’ve come from, once you arrive, Newark becomes your home.

“This is a place where people are not just welcomed — they are made to feel as though they’ve always belonged.

“Newark is a town with a rich history, full of character and pride.

“But what truly sets us apart is the incredible community spirit of our people.

“Whether through acts of kindness, hard work, or community service, it is the residents of Newark who give our town life. “

In her speech, the mayor has also announced the three charities that she will be supporting during her mayoral year — Newark Foodbank, Bomber County Gateway Trust, and Mansfield Cat Rescue.

As mayor, she said that she wished to “foster a sense of community, care, and support that extends to every corner of Newark”.

Town clerk, Matthew Gleadell, then offered the Loving Cup for the mayor to drink from.

After the formalities — which had previously been held at Newark’s parish church before the restoration and enhancement works began — guests were offered a light buffet and tours of the first floor of the Town Hall.

Following the event, the mayor said: “I was delighted to be joined by so many people, including my parents, who came from Melbourne for the event.

“My sister and her family also joined us on their way from America back to Australia.

“I hope my two-year-old nephew and nine-month-old niece will be able to look with interest at photos of the day as they grow up; at their ages it's currently just funny seeing Auntie Barbara in her mayoral robes.”