Borough ‘invests’ a new Mayor
Councillor Darshan Mann was invested as the Borough of Eastleigh’s First Citizen at the annual Mayor Making ceremony at the King’s Community Church, Hedge End. Darshan , who represents Eastleigh South ward, has been a Borough Councillor for seven years.
Darshan was born in Udhowal in Punjab and came to Engalnd with his father when he was 14 years old. They lived in Southampton and Darshan went to The Deanery School.
They moved to the Midlands in 1973 and it was here that they he met his future wife Dalip and they married in India in 1976. They have two children, Ajay and Kindy.
The family moved back to Southampton in 1979 and lived in Lordswood. In 1981 they bought a corner shop in Archers Road in Eastleigh which they ran for six years. During this time Darshan also worked for Ford. In 1987 they sold the shop to give them more time together as a family and they moved to Leigh Road in Eastleigh where they have lived ever since. Darshan retired in 2009 and as well a part-time job at Asda in Chandler’s Ford he and Dalip also enjoy looking after their two grandchildren whenever they are needed.
Darshan has been involved with the local community all his life and works as a trustee of the Asian Welfare & Cultural Association which includes helping to organise the popular Eastleigh Mela.
Darshan said: “I’m really excited about my Mayoral year and in particular I’m really looking forward to representing the Borough and promoting so many good things it has to offer. In particular I’m looking forward to meeting lots of local residents, organisations and businesses throughout the Borough - and I’m also looking forward to promoting and supporting my nominated charities“.
He added, “I also give thanks to my political colleagues for the challenge, support and trust over the years - and for electing the first Asian and Sikh Mayor of the Borough of Eastleigh.”
This year’s Mayors Charity appeal will be in aid of One Community’s Visiting Scheme, the Eastleigh Lions Minibus Appeal and Eastleigh Borough & Romsey Mencap.
Councillor Cynthia Garton, who represents Hedge End South was invested as Deputy Mayor for the year.
The Council also conferred the title of Honorary Alderman to Carol Boulton and Cliff Simpkins.