The Mayor of Christchurch

Following the Annual Council Meeting of Tuesday, 15 May 2019, Councillor Mrs Lesley Dedman was elected Mayor of Christchurch for 2019/20 by Christchurch Town Council. 

About Councillor Mrs Lesley Dedman

Lesley Dedman was born in London and upon leaving school travelled widely with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and the Merchant Navy. Starting married life in Wales, where she lived on and ran a small farm, Lesley moved to Dorset over 30 years ago.

She is a proud mother of four and grandmother of six.

As a former smallholder, animals still figure largely in her life, and she has two Labradors and a black cat, all of whom can be seen accompanying her on walks in Mudeford.

Serving on school PTAs and taking an active role in the community meant it was a small step into local government. She joined Ferndown Town Council (where she served as Mayor 2007 to 2009) and was then elected to East Dorset District.

Lesley was elected to Christchurch Council in 2011 and Dorset County in 2013.

Lesley was elected to Christchurch Town Council in 2019 and also Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Unitary Council in 2019, and is a Cabinet member and Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care, Health and Public Health. 

The Mayor's charity for the year

Her nominated charity this year is Dorset Community Foundation, who raise funds for those most in need across Dorset.

Deputy Mayor

Councillor Susan Bungey is Deputy Mayor.