In a town in which civic tradition stretches back to 1380, the appointment of a new mayor is not just a change of office: it is the continuation of a long-held legacy. A new page turned in the history books of Rye as Councillor Chris Hoggart assumed the mantle on Monday 4 May, following two years serving as deputy mayor and stepping forward with a clear sense of purpose.
Rye’s mayoralty is steeped in history, shaped over centuries by those who have served the town through times of prosperity and challenge alike. From medieval governance to the present day, each mayor has added his or her own chapter, balancing tradition with the needs of a changing community. It is into this lineage that Chris Hoggart now steps. He is aware of the weight of the role but is equally ready to shape it for the future and is honoured to do so. He will be ably supported by Councillor Pat Hughes as his deputy mayor.
“It’s a great honour for me to be elected Mayor of Rye by my fellow councillors and, in the past, of course, by the people of Rye,” Chris Hoggart says.” I will do my best to live up to this privileged position by trying to protect the town and its residents during my mayoralty. We are in a time of great change for local authorities with district councils, Rother DC being abolished in favour of control by, in all probability, an enlarged East Sussex County Council. This brings challenges for small town councils such as Rye and navigating through this potential quagmire to achieve the best possible outcome for the town will be challenging.
“The good news, however, is that I will have my council colleagues and the great people of Rye to help me. These people give so much to the community through their volunteering efforts, charity donations and willingness to get stuck in to overcome problems and difficulties. I am confident that this community spirit will help me to be an effective mayor of this town and I hope that we can all have some fun and laughter on the journey.”
Having spent the past two years as deputy mayor, Chris Hoggart brings both experience and insight to the position. Those close to the council describe a steady and thoughtful approach coupled with a willingness to listen, qualities that have quietly prepared him for this moment. The deputy role has offered a valuable apprenticeship, providing a close view of the demands of office, from civic duties and ceremonial events to the day-to-day concerns of residents and businesses.
This video takes you through the day from the Mayor Making Ceremony in the town hall to the civic parade, the church service at St Mary’s to RyeBellion drummers leading the new mayor through the streets of Rye and ending with the throwing of the hot pennies.
Now, as he begins his mayoralty, there is a sense of readiness. The phrase “assume the mantle” feels particularly fitting in Rye, where the role carries not only responsibility but also a ceremonial symbolism representing the town’s heritage, its people and its ambitions.
Chris Hoggart’s tenure begins at a time when communities like Rye continue to navigate the balance between preserving identity and embracing change. From supporting local enterprise to championing community initiatives, the mayor’s role remains both visible and vital.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .