Liam's day to remember as Rotherham's Little Mayor

The town’s unique tradition of having a Little Mayor was this year bestowed on ten-year-old Liam Walker, who accompanied the Mayor of Rotherham, Cllr Lyndsay Pitchley, for a packed day of duties.

Millers season ticket holder Liam took a behind-the-scenes tour of the New York Stadium with the Mayor and his family when he bumped into midfielder Will Vaulks -his favourite player.

Mum Denise said: “I think he was star-struck. It was the icing on the cake for him.”

Liam said it was “awesome” to meet his idol and they chatted about lots of things including what the players ate before a match.

The Bramley Grange Primary School pupil, who was nominated by his teacher, started his day by being picked up by the Mayor’s attendant and driven to the Town Hall in the mayoral car alongside Cllr Pitchley.

Liam then took part in the robing ceremony and signing official documents and said he could not believe how “heavy and hot” the robe was.

His first engagement was at Rotherham Golf Club, which was handy as Liam and his younger brother Kieron (8) are big golf fans, just like their dad Alan (44).

He was joined for lunch at the Town Hall by the Deputy Little Mayor, Hazel Foulger, and  councillors.

Denise added: “Afterwards, he walked to the minster and learned about some of the history from the curates.

“Then we walked down to the Chapel on the Bridge, which we didn’t even realise was open to the public \a and visited the jail.”

Liam said the day, which was tailored to his interests, was “awesome” and Denise said the “wonderful experience” made her so proud of her son.

She added: “He did a radio interview, which he wasn’t expecting, and he came across really well.

“It’s such an honour to see Liam in the role and it’s a great initiative of the borough council’s which helps to engage young people in local politics.”

Cllr Pitchley said it had been a fantastic day and one she had been looking forward to.

The Mayor added: “I love working with children and young people. Liam and his family were amazing.

“He was so charming, polite and really well mannered \a he asked all the right questions.”

The Mayor added that she believed Liam had a bright golf career ahead of him and he had impressed her on the green.

Liam is now looking forward to his next engagement at the town centre Christmas lights switch on, on Thursday, November 12, where he will assist The Mayor.