Councillor Alan Fleming QRM has been elected as the new Mayor of Walsall for the 2026-27 term following the annual Mayor Making ceremony held in the Council Chamber on 18 May 2026. He takes over the civic role from the outgoing mayor, Councillor Louise Harrison.
Councillor Fleming, who represents the Streetly ward, is a former West Midlands Police officer with 32 years of service. He was awarded the Queen’s Rhodesia Medal for his work during the Zimbabwe Independence Elections in 1980. His wife, Sue Fleming, will serve as his consort for the duration of his time in the post. Alongside his appointment, Councillor Jim Parsons, who represents the Pelsall ward, has been named the new Deputy Mayor.
The appointment comes after the recent local elections saw Reform UK secure 40 of the 60 seats on the council. While the mayoral position has traditionally been filled based on a seniority system, the selection of a newly elected councillor has drawn criticism from opposition parties who have accused the local party leadership of bypassing long-standing community traditions.
As part of his duties, the new mayor has announced the focus of his fundraising efforts for the upcoming year. The Mayor’s Appeal 2026-27 will support the Streetly Sports and Community Association and Caldmore Village Festival Ltd. Residents can expect to see the new mayor representing the borough at various local functions and civic events throughout his term.
Further information regarding the council and its civic leadership can be found on the Walsall Council website.
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