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# Sandwell elects its first openly gay mayor
- URL: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/sandwell-elects-its-first-openly-gay-mayor/
- Published: 2022-06-25T16:00:29.000Z
- Updated: 2022-06-24T10:43:56.000Z
- Description: Councillor Richard Jones has been elected as Sandwell’s first openly gay mayor, with his partner Councillor Richard McVittie acting as his consort. Talking to the Express and Star, Richard Jones, of the Old Warley Ward, said “What a momentous occasion it is for Sandwell having just elected its first
- Author: Catherine Muxworthy
- Tags: Coventry and West Midlands, LGBT, LGBTQ

Councillor **Richard Jones** has been elected as **Sandwell**’s first openly gay mayor, with his partner Councillor **Richard McVittie** acting as his consort.

Talking to the *Express and Star,* Richard Jones, of the **Old Warley Ward**, said “What a momentous occasion it is for Sandwell having just elected its first openly gay Mayor. I am extremely proud and honoured to become the Mayor of Sandwell along with my consort, my partner, Councillor Richard McVittie. It is especially poignant that this is happening 50 years after the first Pride protest.”

What’s more, he is also excited to announce that during his mayoral year, he will be supported by the first black African Caribbean woman in the role of deputy mayor, Councillor **Jackie Taylor**.

![](https://www.scenemag.co.uk/content/images/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sandwell-mayor-2-e1656067314806.jpg)

Councillor Jones explained: “I would like to thank those councillors and minority community group members who have come before me – spearheading inclusivity, equality and diversity.

“I appreciate the support of each and every one of you but especially my supportive friends and family. I am really looking forward to the next year. Over the next few months we have some great opportunities to celebrate the people of Sandwell. I am looking forward to seeing and meeting the great people and communities of Sandwell. It really will be an honour.”

This new mayoral team will be raising money for **St John’s Ambulance**, the **LGBT+ in Sandwell Community Group**, and **New Beginnings Baby Bundles**. Anyone interested in donating can email [mayors\_parlour@sandwell.gov.uk](mailto:mayors%5Fparlour@sandwell.gov.uk).