“EVERYONE can do something to help others” is the message from the woman who has become the new mayor of Basingstoke and Deane

Cllr Jane Frankum, a Labour councillor for the Popley West ward, was appointed as the new Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane at the annual mayor-making ceremony on May 19.

The former Basingstoke hospital cleaner and her youngest son Tony, who has become the new mayor’s escort, took over the chains of office from outgoing Conservative councillor Anne Court and her daughter-in-law Colette. 

Addressing the council and guests at the official ceremony, Cllr Mrs Frankum said the theme of her mayoral year would be “everyone can”. 

Cllr Mrs Frankum said: “I would like to thank Anne, she will be a tough act to follow but will do my best to serve this borough just as well as you.

“Leaving school with no qualifications, now disabled and with a hearing impairment to now being honoured as mayor, I am an example that anyone can do something to make a difference.” 

Labour councillor for the Norden ward, Cllr George Hood formally proposed Cllr Mrs Frankum as the new mayor, which was seconded by Conservative councillor Roger Gardiner. 

In his nomination speech Cllr Gardiner said: “I have known Jane for a number of years, and will take advantage of calling her Jane before we introduce the formalities of madam mayor. 

“There is nothing that happens in her beloved Popley that she does not know about, she lives and breathes the people of Popley.

“If there was ever anyone deserving enough to be called the people’s mayor then it is Jane.” 

After the ceremonial exchange of chains and robes, retiring mayor Cllr Court presented awards to her volunteers as well as presenting a bunch of flowers to Pamber and Silchester ward councillor, Cllr Marilyn Tucker for 40 years of service to the council. 

Cllr Court also presented a unique bouquet made of recycled leaflets to council officer Debbie Collins for her work throughout the year. 

On retiring as mayor, Cllr Court said: “It is strange to say I am retiring and not have a pension. 

“I have had a wonderful year and have met some of the incredible people that this borough has.” 

Addressing the council after her appointment, the new mayor, Cllr Mrs Frankum, said along with Basingstoke Voluntary Action, they have agreed to set up a mayor’s community chest which will support a number of projects across the borough. 

Fellow Popley West councillor, and the mayor’s eldest son, Cllr Paul Frankum has been appointed as deputy mayor.