Meet the Mayor & Deputy Mayor of Trowbridge
Find out more about our Mayor and Deputy Mayor, including what and who inspires them.
At the Annual Meeting of Trowbridge Town Council held on 11 May 2026, Councillor Stewart Palmen was elected as the new Mayor of Trowbridge and Chair of the Council.
Councillor Julie Vine was also elected as Deputy Mayor for the forthcoming municipal year.
Mayor of Trowbridge
Councillor Stewart Palman
What inspired you to run for the position of mayor?
After enjoying being deputy mayor for the last two years I felt I had all the required experience, and this year I do have the time necessary to apply to being a good Mayor of Trowbridge. I love the Town and am so honored to be elected to this position.
What are some of your personal goals for your term as mayor?
First is to represent Trowbridge well at as many of the surrounding towns Civic events as possible. Second to raise as much money as possible for my two charities (Group 5 and The Storehouse Food Bank) and finally to raise the profile of Trowbridge in the South West.
Which famous person most inspires you and why?
David Attenbrough, who is humble and influential without being boastful or arrogant.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received and how do you apply it to your work?
“If at first you don’t succeed,try try again” I think I apply this more to being a Councillor but as Mayor it will help make determined to make things happen.
What’s the most interesting (or unexpected) thing you’ve learned about Trowbridge?
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That the first central heating system for Windsor Castle was made in Trowbridge by George Haden.
If you could have any superpower to help you in your role as mayor, what would it be?
The ability to be in two places at once as we gain more requests to attend events than is possible to accept (though the Deputy Mayor will help out with this).
Deputy Mayor of Trowbridge
Councillor Julie Vine
What inspired you to run for the position of mayor?
I enjoy meeting people in all the ordinary places – coffee shops – supermarkets – garden centres and I have always wanted to make a difference wherever I find myself. I think Mayor and Deputy Mayor can be a strong voice for the people of Trowbridge. Together we can all make a difference. It’s a great privilege to be Deputy Mayor.
What are some of your personal goals for your term as mayor?
I would like to think I can highlight the really great work of the charity and voluntary groups who help to make Trowbridge a vibrant lively place to live.
Which famous person most inspires you and why?
I can’t just have one person. The Equal Pay Act fundamentally broadened my horizon. I have Barbara Castle to thank for enabling all women to see further and achieve more. Michelle Obana has more recently been someone I rate highly. I admire her integrity and authentic approach to working with people and making a difference.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received and how do you apply it to your work?
Best advice from my driving instructor “look ahead stay focused”.
Maya Angelou wrote a poem “I’ve learned”. The line I carry with me is this: “I’ve learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.” It truly is a magical poem written with passion and maturity. Read It.
What’s the most interesting (or unexpected) thing you’ve learned about Trowbridge?
So many trees, it’s marvellous! Our history in textiles, and industry. Especially at the Spitfire Retail park, or located nearby, the Spitfire planes were constructed (essential in World War 11). I understand a memorial is planned. I hope to see that in place soon.