Dog loving new mayor is set to take the lead and ‘get to work’
New Mayor of Telford Eileen Callear set out her civic stall as a champion of diversity and revealed that she is the owner of no less than seven dogs.
Councillor Eileen Callear also proclaims that she is a “proud autistic person” and has two children – one with autism and the other ADHD.
In her first speech wearing the chain of office Councillor Callear (Labour, Hadley & Leegomery) described her own journey in life as being “shaped by challenges” and had a message to those who “ever doubted my ability.”
She said: “As a woman and as a proud autistic person I know that the path to leadership isn’t always easy but I also know that strength comes in many forms.
“Diversity is not a weakness, it is our greatest asset.”
Councillor Callear said her own life journey has been “shaped by challenges but those challenges have given me a unique perspective, one that values authenticity and real solutions for real people.”
And her message to doubters was: “Leadership is not about fitting the mould, it is about breaking barriers, listening and making a difference.”
Speaking of being ‘honoured and profoundly grateful’ to be “your newly elected mayor”, she picked out the values of ‘resilience, innovation and community’ as representing Telford.
“I am here to serve,” she pledged to colleagues at the annual meeting of Telford & Wrekin Council on Thursday (May 16).
She aims to “advocate and to uplift every single person in this borough.
“I am committed to ensuring that Telford & Wrekin thrives, not just for some but for all.
“I am ready to get to work but no individual can do that alone, we all play our part.”
Councillor Callear also sits on Hadley and Leegomery Parish Council and Ketley Parish Council too.
She revealed the charities that she will support during her year as Parents Opening Doors (PODS), an independent local charity supporting parents and carers of young people with a disability or additional needs.
She said she has two children, one with ADHD and the other, autism.
Mayor Callear is also backing Hilbrae Rescue Kennels and said: “ As an owner of seven dogs myself I believe they are often overlooked and make a huge difference to people’s lives, be that seeing or hearing for people who can’t or offering mental support for ex-service personnel.”
There were gasps as the Mayor revealed the number of canine companions she has.
She quipped: “I collect them as I go along.
