Councillor Rags Sandhu was elected Deputy Mayor of the London Borough of Bexley in 2022, just days after being elected to the council for the first time representing Bexleyheath Ward. His wife Bal served alongside him as Deputy Mayoress throughout the civic year.
How Did the Deputy Mayor Appointment Come About?
Being elected Deputy Mayor of the London Borough of Bexley was a huge honour — and a complete surprise. I had only been elected onto the council days before the appointment. To go from campaigning on the doorsteps of Bexleyheath Ward to wearing the mayoral chains in the space of a week was something I could never have predicted.
The role of Deputy Mayor carries significant civic responsibilities. Over the 2022/23 civic year, I attended more than 80 official engagements across the borough, representing residents at ceremonies, charity events, and community gatherings.
What Does the Role of Deputy Mayor Involve?
The Deputy Mayor supports the Mayor of Bexley in their ceremonial and civic duties. This includes attending official functions, representing the borough at events, and stepping in for the Mayor when required. It is a role that demands time, dedication, and a genuine love for the community.
For Bal and me, it was a deeply personal experience. Over the years, our family had been keen supporters of the Bexley Mayoralty. We had attended civic events, supported mayoral charities, and seen first-hand the positive impact the role has on community life. That background gave us some knowledge of what to expect — but nothing quite prepares you for the reality of wearing the chains for the first time.
You can learn more about my journey and the values that guide my public service on the about page.
What Did the Experience Mean for Bexleyheath Ward?
Serving as Deputy Mayor gave me a unique perspective on the London Borough of Bexley as a whole. While my primary duty is and always will be to the residents of Bexleyheath Ward, the role allowed me to understand the challenges and opportunities facing every corner of the borough — from Erith and Thamesmead to Sidcup and Welling.
It also reinforced my belief in the power of civic duty. The Mayoralty is not about titles or ceremony — it is about service. During the 2022/23 year, the mayoral team helped raise over tens of thousands of pounds for local charities, and I was proud to play my part in that effort.
How Has Being Deputy Mayor Shaped My Work as Councillor?
The connections I made during my time as Deputy Mayor have strengthened my ability to serve Bexleyheath Ward. I built relationships with community leaders, charity organisers, faith groups, and council officers across every part of the borough. Those relationships continue to benefit residents today.
I carry the lessons of that year into everything I do: listen first, serve with humility, and never forget that every role in public life is a privilege, not a right. Explore the community initiatives I support across the ward, and if you would like to discuss any local issue, please get in touch.