Labour Councillor Sue Murphy has spoken of her pride after being selected to serve as Mayor of St Helens Borough Council for another year.

At Annual Council, held in St Helens Town Hall today (Wednesday 25 May), Councillor Murphy – who represents Billinge and Seneley Green ward – was formally sworn in for 2022-23.

Despite not being able to attend as many engagements as she would have liked due to Covid-19, Councillor Murphy still managed to raise a substantial amount for her chosen charities, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital – where her granddaughter underwent successful brain surgery – and the Helen Marie Friends charity, which supports sick and disabled children.

This year, Councillor Murphy has chosen to support Willowbrook Hospice.

Having been involved in local politics for the past 28 years, Councillor Murphy has held a number of high-profile roles on the council, including deputy leader and a number of cabinet positions. While she has also served as Deputy Crime Commissioner for Merseyside Police as well as Chair of Governors at Garswood Primary School.

Speaking of her pride to be given the opportunity to represent St Helens Borough as mayor for another year, Councillor Murphy said:  

“Being mayor this past year has been a wonderful honour for me and my family – meeting so many inspirational people and community groups who have done incredible things to make our borough a better place – so I’m delighted that I get to do it all over again for another year. 

“The support I have received, especially for my chosen charities, has been nothing short of outstanding and I’m very much looking forward to going out to meet even more people, groups and organisations, while raising awareness and funds for Willowbrook which is a cause very close to my heart.” 

Councillor Murphy’s husband, Mike, will continue his role as consort.

This year’s Mayor Making ceremony also saw Windle ward councillor, Lynn Clarke, named deputy mayor for 2022-23.