First elected in 1973, Cllr Ross Irving is not only the most experienced councillor in the city, but is undoubtedly the most respected across the political spectrum.
Appointed as Leader of the Council 2009-2010, Ross guided the city through one of it's most difficult periods of political instability.
As a two-time Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent (2017-2018 & 2020-2021) Ross has championed causes across the city, raising vital funds for community projects and representing the city overseas at Lidice in 2017.
Upon his election as Lord Mayor for the second time, Cllr Abi Brown, former Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council said "He is a true statesman, his style and class I still aspire to even come close to. He has held arguably every major role at this local authority over his more than 40 years of service to the city. He's a man of great wisdom and experience and someone who has dedicated his life to public service."
Following a boundary review, Ross will represent the new two-member Meir Hay North, Parkhall and Weston Coyney ward for the next four years, along with Cllr Craig Beardmore.
Ross is also President of the City of Stoke-on-Trent Conservative Federation and sits on the Executive Committee.