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Mayor

The Mayor of Melksham

Mayor Rabey

Councillor Rabey

The current Town Mayor of Melksham for 2025/2026 is Councillor Rabey, Saffi, who was elected at the Annual Council Meeting held on 12th May 2025.

Councillor Rabey has served as a Town Councillor representing the North Ward. Their appointment as Mayor marks a continuation of their commitment to public service and community leadership in Melksham.

“I am honoured to be serving as Mayor of Melksham and proud to be in my second term as a Town Councillor, having first been elected in May 2021 to represent the North Ward—a community I care for deeply. Being re-elected by local residents is a privilege, and I remain dedicated to working hard on their behalf.

My focus continues to be on making Melksham a clean, vibrant, and welcoming place to live. I’m passionate about fostering a strong sense of community through fantastic local events, supporting well-maintained play areas for children, and championing initiatives that improve daily life for everyone.

On the Council, my key interests lie in economic development and planning—ensuring that future growth is balanced and responsive to the needs of our town. I believe strongly in listening, collaborating, and delivering meaningful results.
Outside of civic life, I enjoy live music, walking in the countryside, and swimming in the sea whenever I can. At home, I’m kept on my toes by my three cats, who make sure there’s never a dull moment.”

What Does the Mayor Do?

The Town Mayor of Melksham serves as the civic figurehead of the Council and plays an important ceremonial and representative role throughout the year. Responsibilities of the Mayor include:

  • Attending civic and community events in Melksham and the surrounding area
  • Recognising and celebrating the achievements and contributions of local residents and organisations
  • Promoting civic pride and encouraging community engagement
  • Representing the town at formal events, celebrations, and commemorations

In addition to ceremonial duties, the Mayor also serves as Chairperson of the Town Council. In this role, the Mayor:

  • Presides over Full Council meetings and the Annual Town Meeting
  • Upholds the Standing Orders (rules) of the Council
  • Ensures fair and orderly debate during meetings
  • Works closely with the Town Clerk to facilitate good governance

If the Mayor is absent, the Deputy Mayor may preside at meetings and attend functions on their behalf.

The office of Mayor is ceremonial and non-political. It carries no additional authority or advantage beyond the honour of representing the people of Melksham with dignity and impartiality.

 

Ian Pugh, Melksham’s Town Crier

I’m Ian Pugh, and I’m proud to serve as the official Town Crier for Melksham. It’s an honour to carry out this historic role bringing tradition, colour, and a strong voice to community events and public occasions across the town.

My journey into public speaking began over 30 years ago when I was encouraged to try hospital radio. That first experience sparked a real passion for communication and community involvement. Since then, I’ve continued to develop my skills, and went on to train as a professional toastmaster in London. This opened doors to a wide range of formal and ceremonial events, from stately homes to historic venues in the City of London.

As Town Crier, I aim to be an active and visible presence in Melksham. One of my key goals is to visit local schools sharing the history of the role, talking about my experiences, and maybe even showing a few students how to ring the bell with style.

It’s a privilege to represent our town in this unique way, and I look forward to meeting many of you at events throughout the year. If you see me out and about, do stop and say hello!

fearLess

FearFree

Mayors Chosen Charity

FearFree is a charity breaking the cycle of domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking across the Southwest. Each year, we support over 10,000 adults and children—helping them stay safe, recover, and rebuild their lives free from fear. Our free, inclusive services range from crisis intervention and recovery programmes to education and employment support. We also run perpetrator and awareness programmes, tackling abuse at its root to bring about long-term change. We don’t just protect people—we give them hope and a future free from abuse.

fearfree.org.uk
Wiltshire Air Ambulance

Wiltshire + Bath Air Ambulance

Mayors Chosen Charity

Wiltshire Air Ambulance delivers critical medical care across Wiltshire and Bath—by land and by air. Our expert team brings hospital-level treatment directly to people in life-threatening situations, as quickly as possible. Every mission is powered by the community, and every second counts.

wiltshirebathairambulance.org.uk

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