‘A great honour’: Town Mayor joins Tesco Maldon for Pride celebration following re-election

By Ben Shahrabi 7th Jun 2023

Local News by Ben Shahrabi 7th Jun 2023

The Mayor of Maldon joined Tesco staff in showing support for Pride Month, as the local store celebrated the occasion by repainting several pedestrian crossings.

Councillor Andrew Lay, who was re-elected as Town Mayor on May 15, officially opened the new rainbow crossings at Tesco Maldon last Monday (June 5).

Stuart Dickinson, Store Manager, said: "I'm delighted to show our support for Pride and the LGBTQ+ community who shop with us, and to highlight our support for these communities to all our customers."

Daniel Wheelband, who works in the Network Department at the Maldon store, is credited for his "drive and contribution" which made the initiative possible.

Mr Dickinson added: "The amazing work of Daniel and the in-house Maintenance teams have made this all possible. A super job by all."

Tesco is a longstanding supporter of Pride and the LGBTQ+ community, donating more than half a million pounds to charities including the Albert Kennedy Trust, Mermaids, and Terrence Higgins Trust. The supermarket is also set to donate a percentage of sales from this year's 'Home and Clothing Pride' range to charity.

Cllr Andrew Lay said: "It is a great honour to be invited to participate in the opening of the crossings recognising Pride and the contribution of the LGTBQ+ community."

Town Councillors Andrew Lay (left) and Martin Harvey (right) were elected as Maldon Mayor and Deputy Mayor last month. (Photo: Maldon Town Council)

Upon his re-election last month, Cllr Lay will serve a second civic year as Mayor of Maldon. He is supported by his wife, Karen, as Town Mayoress.

He said "The role of Town Mayor in Maldon goes back to 1687, so it is an honour for me to continue to be a part of that great heritage.

"My family and I have lived and worked in the town (and adopted the local football team) for many years, so I know what a great town Maldon is.

"It will be my privilege to support the good works of many local people which preserve the economic, cultural, and social well-being of the town."

The mayor will support the local food bank, the David Randall Foundation, and Maldon's heritage sites, through fundraising events. He says the town council will work "tirelessly" to benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Councillor Martin Harvey was also elected as Deputy Town Mayor - supported by his wife, Wendy, as Deputy Town Mayoress.