Miles Platting and Newton Heath councillor Carmine Grimshaw has been appointed the new Lord Mayor of Manchester following a meeting of the full today (14 May).
A lifelong Mancunian, Carmine’s journey from the streets of Ancoats to the halls of local government is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the community.
Born and raised in Ancoats, Carmine grew up in a close-knit family, experiencing first hand the transformative changes in the city. He attended Saint Michael’s RC Primary School and later Saint Luke’s Secondary School in Beswick before embarking on his career as a sewing machine mechanic.
Following the closure of his employer Raffles & Co in the 1980s, he transitioned into street trading, earning his license in 1983 and becoming a familiar presence on Thomas Street in what is now known as the Northern Quarter. His advocacy for fellow traders led to the formation of the Manchester Street Traders Association in 1990, reinforcing his commitment to safeguarding local businesses.
Throughout the years, Carmine has continually worked to support Manchester’s communities. His tenure as chair of the A-5 Off-Licence Forum shows his concerns for responsible licensing and community safety.
He and his twin brother Brian opened a convenience store in Newton Heath in 1993. The ambitious move was made possible with the help of their friend and former Lord Mayor the late Cllr Hugh Barrett and was a further nod to his service to the local community.
In 2012, his passion for civic engagement led him to public office, where he has tirelessly represented the residents of Miles Platting and Newton Heath for more than a decade. His leadership on various committees, including the Neighbourhoods and Communities Committee and the Licensing Policy Committee, has been instrumental in shaping policies that benefit Manchester’s citizens.
Throughout his tenure as Lord Mayor, Carmine will have the support of Lady Mayoress, Elaine Grimshaw and a Consort, Councillor June Hitchen.
Carmine is the proud father of twin sons, Carmine and Louis, along with youngest son, Jack, as well as three grandchildren, Zara and twins Honey and Rico.
