Wells has chosen its next Mayor — and it's a historic moment for England's smallest city.

Councillors unanimously backed Cllr Denise Denis to become the 652nd Mayor of Wells at February's Full City Council meeting. Cllr Sarah Powell was also unanimously elected as Deputy Mayor for the 2026–27 civic year.

The pair will be formally sworn in at the traditional Mayor Making service on Saturday, 16 May 2026, before taking up the role for 12 months.

The current Mayor, Cllr Louis Agabani, said he was confident the city would be in safe hands.

"I know that the role of Mayor will be in good hands for the next year and look forward to supporting Cllr Denis in the hand over of the position from May," he said.

Cllr Denis said she was "delighted and honoured" to have the support of fellow councillors.

"It is a delight and an honour to be considered as the next Mayor of Wells and I look forward to taking on the role with pride following the official service," she said.

The Mayor of Wells acts as the city's first citizen, representing the community at civic ceremonies, charity events and official engagements throughout the year.

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Further details about the Mayor Making service and Cllr Denis' chosen charity for her year in office are expected to be announced in the coming months.

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