Bolton has officially welcomed its new mayor, Councillor Mohammed Iqbal, following his inauguration as the borough’s first citizen for the 2026–27 municipal year.
Having moved to Bolton as a child, he has built his life and career in the borough and is exceptionally proud to represent the town during his mayoral year.
Councillor Iqbal was born in the village of Ghora Khajulah, Kashmir, and came to live in Bolton at the age of 12.
He began working in the transport sector in 1977 on the buses before later moving into his own haulage business and building a long career within the transport industry.
Councillor Iqbal was elected to Bolton Council 18 years ago and has proudly served his community ever since.
During his time on the council, he has served as chair of a scrutiny committee and has also been a member of the planning committee and corporate scrutiny amongst other roles. He has also served as a governor of local schools.
Councillor Iqbal is exceptionally proud to serve as Bolton’s first citizen having built his life in Bolton, where he has been happily married and raised his children and grandchildren.
Councillor Iqbal said: “I feel deeply honoured to have been chosen to represent the people of Bolton.
“It is the greatest honour of my life.
“Bolton is a town full of diversity, strength, and opportunity, and I look forward to meeting people from all walks of life and representing our town with pride throughout the coming year.”
He will be supported by his wife, Sayda, who will serve as mayoress, and will use his term to champion Bolton and support local communities and charities across the borough.
During his mayoral year, Councillor Iqbal is proud to support these worthy local charities:
- Bolton Hospice, which provides specialist care and support to patients and families
- Emmaus Bolton, supporting people experiencing homelessness
- Endeavour, which supports women within the community
- Raise the Youth, helping and inspiring young people across Bolton
The mayor kindly asks residents, businesses, and community groups to support these charities throughout the year through fundraising, donations, and community support to help make a positive difference across Bolton.
Councillor Iqbal takes over the mayoral role from Cllr David Chadwick who now becomes deputy mayor.