by Salford Council
Councillor Robin Garrido has officially been presented with the chains of office as the new Ceremonial Mayor of the City of Salford for the Municipal Year 2026/27. The formal installation took place at the full Council meeting today (Wednesday 27 May), marking the beginning of a year of civic leadership, charity fundraising and community engagement.
In accepting the role, Councillor Garrido begins his mayoral year with a strong commitment to supporting local communities, announcing his three chosen charities: The Survivor Project, Salford City FC Foundation and Community Chest.
Born in Oxford, Councillor Garrido moved to Manchester in 1952 where he was educated at Ryder Brow Secondary Modern School in Gorton. After leaving school, he worked alongside his father as an engineer before retraining as an estate agent. After nearly two decades in the property sector, he joined Greater Manchester Police as a civilian employee, where he played a key role as Economic Development Manager and supported charitable initiatives.
With a long-standing record of public service, Councillor Garrido was first elected to Salford City Council in 1975, representing the then Linnyshaw and Central ward. He later served the Boothstown and Ellenbrook ward from 2004 until boundary changes in 2023, and now represents Worsley and Westwood Park.
At the official presentation, Councillor John Merry was confirmed as the Deputy Ceremonial Mayor of the City of Salford for the Municipal Year 2026/27.
Speaking about his appointment, Councillor Robin Garrido said: “It is an honour and a privilege to serve as Ceremonial Mayor of Salford. This city has given me so much throughout my life, and I am incredibly proud to serve its people. Over the coming year, I look forward to working closely with communities across Salford and supporting charities that make a real and lasting difference to people’s lives across the city.”
Outside of his civic duties, Councillor Garrido enjoys Formula One motor racing and playing chess – pastimes that reflect both his enthusiasm and strategic mindset.
Councillor Robin Garrido takes over from Councillor Heather Fletcher who raised over £35,000 for charity during her year in office, with a specific focus on supporting Salford Loaves and Fishes, Critchley Community Hub – Age UK and L’Chaim (Foodbank).
He will be assisted in his role by Mayoress Mrs Karen Garrido.
The Ceremonial Mayor has chosen to support the following three charities during his year in office:
The Survivor Project
A charity founded in Salford designed to support individuals and families who have experienced domestic abuse and trauma and help them rediscover themselves, regain stability and create a future that feels safe. The new community hub in Walkden is a space where people can connect, access support and attend support groups.
The Salford City FC Foundation
The Salford City FC Foundation is the official charity of Salford City Football Club. They are dedicated to creating positive opportunities for people across Salford and beyond through sport, wellbeing, education and inclusive community engagement. The organisation’s work aims to reduce social isolation and bring people together.
The Community Chest
This fund has been established to offer grant awards up to £500 to local groups or individuals to help them make a difference in their community or to help them to achieve a specific goal. Grants will be awarded to projects which demonstrate that there will be a benefit to Salford residents, have a community focus and be open to and inclusive of all.
