The Civic Mayor of Torbay Council undertakes the civic and ceremonial role in Torbay and wears the Chain of Office.
The leadership and ceremonial roles in Torbay Council are distinct from each other.
The leadership - in the form of Leader of the Council and Cabinet - deals with the business running of the council, and works with private enterprise, industry and the voluntary sector to improve the standards of living for the people of the Bay in delivering local services.
The Civic Mayor is responsible for chairing meetings of the council. The Civic Mayor also undertakes civic and ceremonial duties in the Borough and attends community engagements and represents Torbay at civic events outside the area on behalf of Torbay Council. The Civic Mayor is always expected to act impartially and in a non-political way.
If you wish to invite the Civic Mayor to an event you are organising, please complete the event information form and return no later than 14 days before the event to the Civic Support, Governance Support, Town Hall, Torquay, TQ1 3DR.
Alternatively, you can return the form via email to civic.support@torbay.gov.uk.
I am Councillor Barbara Lewis and have been appointed as the Civic Mayor for 2025/2026. I have served as a Torbay Councillor for 10 years, bringing compassion, dedication, and a strong sense of community to my role. Originally from London, I worked as a dental nurse before relocating to Paignton to help my Mother to care for my ailing Father. He sadly died of Dementia and that is why I have chosen Rowcroft to be my Charity for the year – they do so much for the Community.
I am married to fellow Councillor, Councillor Chris Lewis, and together we previously ran the popular North Sands Kiosk at Goodrington. My commitment to public service has included serving as Chair of the Licensing Committee at Torbay Council for several years, as well as sitting on the Planning Committee, where I played an active role in shaping local developments.
As the local Councillor for Preston, I am delighted that the Reverend Nathan Kiyaga, Vicar of St Paul’s has kindly agreed to be my Civic Chaplain for the year. I looks forward to his support and spiritual guidance during my term of office.
I am looking forward to promoting the Bay to all the Residents, Visitors and Businesses I meet and hope that all will support my charity Rowcroft Hospice during my time as Civic Mayor.