Since stepping into civic office last May, Teresa Aldred has embraced her role as Leicester’s Lord Mayor with energy, humility, and a genuine passion for the city she calls home.
As the city’s first citizen, she has navigated a whirlwind of events, ceremonies, and community engagements, approaching each with her trademark warmth and enthusiasm.
Picture credit: Leicester City Council
“I’m really loving the role. It’s opened my eyes to so many wonderful things we have in Leicester, the lovely
events people organise, and the amazing people I meet everywhere I go,” she tells Pukaar.
Teresa’s connection with the community is central to her approach. She delights in the city’s diverse events, from festive Christmas singalongs to cultural celebrations and volunteering initiatives.
“I love all aspects of the community. Meeting the volunteers who work tirelessly to make things happen—those are the moments I cherish,” she explains.
Her commitment to inclusivity has made her a well-loved figure across Leicester.
“You’re always your own biggest critic, but the thank-you letters I receive have been heartwarming. People often tell me I’m down to earth and humble. I make time for people from all walks of life because it’s all walks of life that make things happen. Nothing happens alone—it’s always a team effort,” she says.
Teresa’s path to the mayoralty was rooted in grassroots community work. Before entering politics, she volunteered
tirelessly—organising Christmas and Easter events for children, arranging seaside trips for the elderly, and supporting residents in Thurnby Lodge, where she was born and raised. Her dedication caught the attention of the late Allan Gratrix, a local activist who mentored her and encouraged her to stand as a councillor. “At first, I thought, ‘Me? Stand in
politics? I’m just a girl from Thurnby Lodge,’” she recalls. “But Allan pushed me to believe in myself, and I stood—and won.”
Even as he neared the end of his life, Allan remained a guiding influence. “When he was in hospital, he said, ‘One of my biggest regrets is that I won’t see you become Lord Mayor.’ I told him, ‘I’ll never be Lord Mayor,’ but he insisted, ‘You will.’ He always believed in me, and I wanted to honour that belief by doing the role wholeheartedly.”
Picture credit: Leicester City Council
Teresa has thrown herself into the role. Despite warning she might “burn out” by taking on every engagement, she
committed fully. “During my Mayor-making, I decided if I’m going to do it, I’m going to give it my whole heart and
everything I can,” she says.
The position has pushed her beyond her comfort zone. Public speaking initially caused anxiety, compounded by undiagnosed dyslexia. Yet, with perseverance and support from the Civic Office, Teresa has grown in confidence.
“The more I’ve done it, the more I believe in myself. Now, I approach everything with the determination to do my best.”
The ceremonial side of the role has brought both humour and joy. On one occasion, a child jokingly asked if she
enjoyed wearing her “pirate hat.” Yet alongside these lighter moments, the role has been deeply moving. She recalls
celebrating a 103-year-old veteran’s birthday, an occasion that brought tears to attendees’ eyes. She even priorities her
commitments over personal convenience, once cancelling her own birthday plans to honour centenarians.
“They’re only 100 once. If you commit to this role, you should give 100 percent to everything,” she says.
Teresa’s love for Leicester shines through when reflecting on its cultural richness. From performances at the Curve to Diwali celebrations and family trips to the Space Centre or Abbey Pumping Station, she believes the city offers
something for everyone. “We’ve got amazing facilities, incredible events, and a real sense of community. It’s a
fantastic city,” she says.
Her passion extends to charity work. She supports the Joe Humphries Trust, promoting defibrillators citywide—a cause close to her heart due to her own severe heart condition—and Andy’s Man Club, which addresses male suicide. The upcoming Lord Mayor’s Ball aims to raise funds for both causes.
Picture credit: Leicester City Council
Despite an intense schedule, Teresa finds time for personal joys, including dining out, spending time with her
grandchildren, and indulging her love of horses. Looking ahead to the end of her tenure on May 14, she admits she
will be sad to step down but remains focused on making every moment count. “In the meantime, I’m giving it my all
and doing whatever I can for the people. That’s the most important thing,” she says.
For Teresa Aldred, being Lord Mayor is more than a ceremonial position—it’s an opportunity to celebrate
Leicester, support its communities, and inspire others to believe in themselves. “I hope a younger version of me would hear this: believe in yourself,” she says. “No matter your background, education, or upbringing, whatever you set your mind to, you can achieve it.”
