Travel agent Ken Garrity recently transformed from leather-clad glam rocker into robe and chains-wearing mayor – all in a matter of days.
The Greater Manchester‑based agent dressed as Alvin Stardust for Travel Weekly’s 80s fancy dress-themed Northern Ball, before changing costumes to be named provost mayor of Altrincham.
The ceremonial role, which dates back to 1290, was awarded to Garrity, who runs Ken Garrity Travel from home, in recognition of his long-standing charity work.
Since 1981, when Stardust’s Pretend peaked at number four in the charts, Garrity has raised funds for causes ranging from homelessness to medical equipment.
His new role comes with varied responsibilities, from turning on the Christmas lights to tasting ale.
Garrity was made a member of Altrincham Court Leet, a ceremonial and historic civic group made up of residents, about 18 months ago. In that time he has held a number of roles, including court bailiff and chief constable.
“The court asked me if I’d like to become provost mayor, and I thought no more about it,” said Garrity.
“Then, not long after, we had a court meeting to announce the new mayor. Three of us were put forward and the old provost came over and put his hand on my shoulder to select me.
“Before I knew it I was wearing 100-year-old robes and white gloves!”
Members of Altrincham Court Leet meet to debate local issues, organise events, promote Altrincham – a market town in Greater Manchester – and raise money for charitable causes.
Garrity, a long-haul specialist, celebrated 50 years as a travel agent this year having started out when he was 17.
Asked how he would fit in his new mayoral duties with the day job, he said: “I never take a holiday and I have a lot of people helping with all the charity work and I couldn’t do it without them.”