The Lord Mayor of Chester
Cllr Margaret Parker
Councillor Margaret Parker has served the people of Chester and its surrounding rural communities for almost three decades. She was first elected to Chester City Council in 1998, serving until May 2009, and since 2011 has represented the Gowy Rural Ward on Cheshire West and Chester Council.
Alongside her borough role, Margaret has been a Parish Councillor for the Mickle Trafford and District ward for over 31 years, working closely with residents on local issues and championing rural communities.
Margaret is married to the late former Councillor Stuart Parker MBE who was the Sheriff of Chester in 2018/2019. She was proud to support him during his civic year as Sheriff’s Lady.
Her theme as Lord Mayor is Harmony in Every Home and Every Community. Margaret believes that music and culture help bring people together, reduce loneliness and support wellbeing. As part of this theme, she will also be a strong advocate for preventing domestic abuse, recognising that true harmony is only possible when everyone feels safe in their own home.
Her chosen charities reflect these values: Tomorrow’s Women, KidsBank Chester, and Paw Angels.
Margaret is supported during her year by her daughter Deborah, who serves as Lady Mayoress, and she is a proud grandmother to Charles.
Outside civic life, Margaret enjoys the theatre, classical music and opera, and spending time in her lovely garden.
Margaret is honoured to serve as Lord Mayor of Chester for 2026-2027 and looks forward to meeting residents, volunteers, community groups and organisations across both the city and its rural areas.