Doncaster's first ever Reform UK civic mayor leads city's civic service
Coun Jackie Dudley made history as she hosted the annual service
History has been made as Doncaster’s first ever Reform UK civic mayor hosted the annual Civic Service at Doncaster Minster.
Coun Jackie Dudley (Tickhill and Wadworth) attended the service at the church on Sunday.
The Civic Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication provided an opportunity for Coun Dudley to give thanks for our communities and reflect on the importance of public service, compassion and working together for Doncaster.
She said: “A special thank you to the Rainbow Connection choir for their beautiful performance of “Somebody Bigger Than You and I” in the Minster, which added so much to the occasion.
Jake Gill and Jacob Pemberton also gave a presentation highlighting the work of Quality Personal Development, one of Councillor Dudley’s chosen charities.
She added: “Thank you to both for sharing the charity’s work.
“Following the service, we attended the Mansion House. Our sincere thanks go to all the staff for their hard work and hospitality, and to everyone involved in organising and supporting the day.”
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A Doncaster Reform UK spokesperson said: “Jackie’s appointment marks another milestone for Reform UK Doncaster following our historic victory in the 2025 local elections, when we won control of the chamber of Doncaster Council with 37 councillors of the 55 seats up for election.
“But there is an important distinction residents should understand. Doncaster has two Mayors, with very different roles.
“Ros Jones, Labour’s directly elected Mayor, retains executive control of the Council. She appoints her Cabinet and makes virtually all of the key decisions on Council policy and services.
“Jackie Dudley, Reform UK’s Civic Mayor, chairs meetings of Full Council, oversees proceedings impartially and represents Doncaster at civic occasions.
“Despite Reform holding a majority of councillors, the current mayoral system means we cannot simply direct the Council’s executive through our majority alone.
“Jackie’s role is therefore different from that of Ros Jones, but her appointment is a historic moment for Reform in Doncaster.
“Reform has made history in Doncaster. Our councillors will continue working hard to deliver the change residents voted for.
Doncaster Reform UK Councillors attending the event included Oliver Bloor (Sprotbrough), Paul Cutts (Wheatley Hills and Intake), Ioan-Emmanuel Craciun (Balby South), Russ Linley (Balby North and Hexthorpe), Rebecca Booth (Bentley), Rachel Reed (Conisbrough), Guy Aston (Wheatley Hills and Intake) and Joan Briggs (Edlington).