The Mayor

The Mayor of Woking, their role, how to invite them to an event.

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The Mayor

A member of the council is elected to be the Mayor for the forthcoming year. The Mayor, and in their absence the Deputy Mayor, has the following role:

  • to preside over meetings of the council so that business can be carried out efficiently
  • to promote public involvement in the council's activities
  • to attend civic and ceremonial events

The Mayor traditionally steps back from party politics for their term of office. 

The Mayor of Woking, Cllr Rob Leach

Cllr Rob Leach is the 53rd Mayor of Woking. He was appointed at the annual Mayor Making ceremony on Tuesday 19 May 2026.

Watch the Mayor-making ceremony – Woking Public-i

Cllr Rob Leach wearing the Mayor of Woking's ceremonial clothes, including a red cape, large gold chain and ruffled white caveat. He is sitting in front of the Mayor's gold mace which is laid flat on a wooden desk.

About Cllr Leach

Born and raised in Devon, Cllr Leach has lived in Woking since the 1980s and is a long-standing member of the local community.

He brings extensive professional and voluntary experience to his new role and is looking forward to a year of civic engagements, meeting local people and celebrating the borough’s rich voluntary sector.

Before becoming a councillor for the first time in 2004, Cllr Leach enjoyed a varied civil service career and delivered freelance training within the public and private sector.

When he first moved to Woking, his passion for local theatre has played an important role in both friendships and a creative outlet.

Mayor's charities 2026 to 2027

During his mayoral year, Cllr Leach will support and raise funds for Woking Youth Theatre and Phoenix Cultural Centre.

Deputy Mayor of Woking

Cllr Attia Aslam is the Deputy Mayor and will support Cllr Leach during his mayoral year.

Local Government Reorganisation in Surrey

As a result of local government reorganisation (LGR) in Surrey, Cllr Leach will be the last Mayor appointed by Woking Borough Council, marking a significant moment for the borough.

Following approval by councillors, we have applied to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to establish a Charter Trustee, ensuring that the Office of the Mayor and its civic traditions continue following the creation of West Surrey Council.