LOCAL charities were at the heart of an event which saw the mayor of Launceston sworn in for a second term.

Each year, councillors and mayors from across the region come together in Cornwall’s ancient capital to witness the choosing ceremony for the coming year’s mayor. This year was no different, as some of the Duchy’s important people gathered to see Cllr Nicola Gilbert usher in her second year within the role.

Having previously served as deputy mayor to Cllr Helen Bailey, Cllr Gilbert took great pride in stepping into the mayor role last year.

During her inauguration, she said: “In 2017, I sat in this hall with great pride as my sister Margerat was installed as the mayor of Launceston. Today, I stand here even prouder and truly honoured to follow in her footsteps. I believe we are the first sisters to both have served as mayor of our town, an occasion worth celebrating.”

Now, a year on, she has been elected for a second term.

“I am very honoured to have been elected as mayor of Launceston for a second term of office,” said Cllr Gilbert.

“My mayor ceremony was attended by many mayors, deputy mayors and consorts, family, friends and representatives from local schools and businesses. It was a lovely afternoon and I couldn't have wished for anything better.”

One of the roles as mayor is to select two charities which will be the focus of fundraising efforts throughout the year. During her maiden term, Cllr Gilbert selected Launceston Town Band and Launceston in Bloom.

The former, provides musical opportunities to the town’s talented population. The band even has a youth contingent which highlights and nurtures the musical skills of local young people, as they perform at countless social and celebratory occasions throughout the year.

Meanwhile, Launceston in Bloom’s workforce of dedicated volunteers do their best to keep the town looking its best. From assisting with the maintenance of Launceston’s green spaces, to organising decorative and delicate flower displays throughout the town.

Thanks to a number of events hosted within the last year, these worthy causes have each received a sizeable donation from the mayor.

Cllr Gilbert continued: “Fundraising during the year enabled me to present my 2025/2026 charities, the Launceston Town Band and Launceston in Bloom cheques for £1,700 each.”

Now, as her second term commences, Cllr Gilbert has revealed her choices for the 2026/2027 mayor’s charities.

She explained: “My charities for the year 2026/2027 is again the Launceston Town Band and the 1st Launceston Scout Group. I look forward to working and supporting them both throughout this term of office.”

Finally, Cllr Gilbert took the opportunity to thank those whose hard work behind the scenes keep the community running.

“My sincere thanks must go to all council staff,” she concluded. “I would like to personally thank you for your continued hard work, dedication and commitment in serving our local community, and support you have given me throughout my year as mayor.”