After moving to Gloucester all the way from the USA over 30 years ago, Joanne Brown was this year elected to the position of Mayor of Gloucester after two years of being involved with the local council.

We spoke to Joanne to find out what it was about the city that she fell in love with and what she gets up to in her downtime.

What do you enjoy most about your role in Gloucestershire?

“I am almost 6 months into my year as Mayor of Gloucester, and I have enjoyed meeting the various support/charity groups as well as many businesses across the city. What has impressed me most is there is so much positive energy and as Gloucester’s first citizen I enjoy shouting out about the good things in Gloucester, of which there are many.”

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

“Walking and cycling are an important part of my lifestyle and daily routine. I also enjoy reading, wine-making and jam-making using the fruit from my garden, crafts for relaxation, going to the theatre, and spending time with family.”

What's your favourite place to visit in Gloucestershire?

“It would have to be Gloucester Cathedral. It is steeped in history and a truly beautiful building. It seems that each time I visit I notice something I have not seen before. If you are ever in Gloucester Cathedral, you must view the Mayor’s Stall. This is reserved for the exclusive use of the Mayor which I consider to be a huge honour. My goal is to try to use the Mayor's Stall at least once a month during my term of office.”

What's your favourite place to eat in Gloucestershire?

“I must admit that I don’t have a favourite as I like all food! Over the years I have enjoyed dining at many of the restaurants at Gloucester Quays and in the city centre. To be honest, as long as I am not cooking, it all tastes better. My motto with food is ‘Everything in Moderation’.”

Do you support any local sports teams?

“Having lived in Gloucester for 30 years my sporting affections focus on Gloucester Rugby, the magnificent Cherry & Whites. I also look out for Gloucester City FC and look forward to the day when the club can play their home matches in Gloucester.”

What do you miss about Gloucestershire when you are away?

“As I am not often away, it would be the people and the beautiful countryside.”

Are you a film or a book person?

“I am a qualified Librarian and spent several years working in local libraries, so it may not be surprising that I much prefer books. I enjoy e-books, which I often borrow from Gloucestershire Libraries, but by the same token, there is nothing quite like a book in print.”

What's your favourite book?

“Daphne du Maurier’s ‘Rebecca’ simply because it is a very good read.”

What's your favourite film?

“I don't have a favourite and tend to enjoy family-friendly films such as ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’, ‘Mary Poppins’, ‘Miracle on 34th Street’, and ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’.”

Do you ever attend any shows in Gloucestershire?

“I do like to keep busy and keep abreast of what is going on, in particular at the Gloucester Guildhall. I especially enjoy attending shows at The King’s Theatre in Gloucester and I have even been known to tread the boards there many times when part of a local amateur drama group.”

What achievement are you most proud of?

“As any parent will understand, raising my children to be independent must be my proudest achievement. After that, it would be becoming Mayor. It is truly an honour and privilege to be Gloucester’s First Citizen, the Queen’s Representative in the City.”

What made you want to get involved in local politics?

“The thought that I could get more involved and help bring about improvements in my community.”