Littleborough Councillor Janet Emsley Appointed New Mayor of Rochdale

Photo: Rochdale Council

Councillor Janet Emsley has officially taken office as the new Mayor of Rochdale in a ceremony held at the town hall, marking the beginning of her mayoral term for 2025–2026. The evening was filled with civic tradition and warm celebration as councillors, dignitaries, and guests gathered to honour her appointment.

The formal proceedings began with the arrival of outgoing Mayor Councillor Shakil Ahmed, Mayoress Robina Bi, and Consort Councillor Rachel Massey, alongside the incoming deputy mayoral party. Councillor Ahmed opened the meeting by announcing the first order of business—the election of Councillor Janet Emsley as mayor. Councillor Trisha Ayrton welcomed the nomination, which was seconded by Councillor Ashley Dearnley.

After being robed and formally announced to the chamber, Councillor Emsley made a declaration of acceptance and received the mayoral chain. She then delivered her first address as mayor, thanking the council and affirming her commitment to the people of Rochdale.

Born in Littleborough and brought up in both Hull and Rochdale, Councillor Emsley has deep local roots and a strong record of public service. A graduate of Hull University with a BA in Social Studies, she later earned her PGCE at De La Salle College in Middleton. She dedicated over two decades to education, most notably at Wardle High School where she became director of performing arts before retiring in 2015.

Elected to represent Littleborough Lakeside in 2014, Councillor Emsley has served in a variety of leadership roles, including cabinet member for health, wellbeing, culture, and community, and as deputy leader of the council. She is also a prominent volunteer and trustee, including roles with the Hallé Concerts Society, Littleborough Nursing Association, and Armed Forces support initiatives.

A passionate advocate for arts and culture, Janet has led numerous projects including the Gracie Fields statue and Rochdale’s cultural trails. As the town’s first citizen, she has appointed a poet laureate and young poets in residence, and is looking forward to Rochdale’s designation as Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture.

Councillor Faisal Rana was also officially appointed Deputy Mayor during the ceremony, receiving his chain of office and making a declaration alongside incoming Deputy Mayoress Iram Faisal and Deputy Consort Basharat Umer.

The evening included music and entertainment from Wardle Academy Intermediate Brass Band, Rebecca Fitzgibbon, Oakenhoof, and the Hallé, followed by refreshments. Councillor Emsley now embarks on her mayoral year with a pledge to champion community cohesion, culture, and youth engagement across Rochdale.