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In a celebration that blended centuries-old English tradition with modern multicultural pride, Filipino British entrepreneur Viva Andrada O’Flynn has been elected as the Mock Mayor of Barton, the first Filipina British person to hold the historic title.

The annual appointment, rooted in Barton鈥檚 17th-century defiance during the English Civil War, remains a cherished symbol of local identity and independence. For Viva, the honour represents much more than ceremony; it is a chance to celebrate her community, her heritage, and the vibrant diversity of Barton today.

With her family flying in from the Philippines to witness the event, Viva’s appointment marks a proud moment not just for Barton, but for Gloucester鈥檚 growing Filipino community. In this interview, she talks about how she was chosen, the deep history behind the Mock Mayor tradition, and what the role means to her as a community leader, artist and advocate for representation.

Q: How were you selected as Mock Mayor of Barton, and how did you feel when you were selected?

I became Mock Mayor of Barton in September after being invited by Gloucester鈥檚 Town Crier, Alan Myatt, and the Court Leet of Barton St Mary. We held an election at the Robert Raikes House, where people cast their votes for me, and I was chosen. It was both surprising and humbling, and I feel truly honoured, proud, and grateful to carry on this tradition.

What made the moment even more meaningful was having my family fly all the way from the Philippines to witness it. To share such an important occasion with them by my side filled me with joy and reminded me of the sacrifices and love that have shaped who I am.

I am also the first Filipina British to be Mock Mayor of Barton. Alongside this role, I serve as secretary of the Filipino Association of Gloucestershire,  study at Gloucestershire College, and work for Gloucester City Council. For me, this role is not just about tradition, it is about service, representation, and community.

Q: For those unfamiliar, could you tell us more about Barton in Gloucester?

Barton is such a special part of Gloucester. It lies just outside the Eastgate and is one of the most diverse and vibrant communities in the city. Around 12,000 people live in Barton and Tredworth, and more than 70 languages are spoken here, making it one of the most linguistically and culturally rich places in Gloucester.

What makes Barton truly unique is its strong sense of heritage, culture, and neighbourliness. It鈥檚 a place where people from all walks of life come together, and that spirit of diversity and unity is the heart of the community.

Q: Barton has a long tradition of appointing a Mock Mayor. How did this tradition begin?

The tradition of appointing a Mock Mayor goes back to the time of the English Civil War. In 1643, King Charles I laid siege to Gloucester because the city stood against him and supported Parliament. The people of Gloucester held out and the siege failed, which became a turning point in the war.

When the monarchy was restored years later under King Charles II, Gloucester was punished for its defiance. The city鈥檚 boundaries were reduced and Barton was cut off from the official city. Because Barton could no longer have a say in civic life, the people created their own mayor, , as a proud response. It was their way of saying, 鈥淚f the city will not give us a mayor, we will have our own!鈥�

Q: What does it take to become a Mock Mayor today?

To be eligible for the role today, you must either be born in Barton or have lived here for at least two years. The Court Leet looks for someone with a genuine connection to the community, who has contributed positively, and who can carry the title with pride, positivity and humour.

Once chosen, the Mock Mayor is formally robed in a ceremony and represents Barton in community events. One of the highlights is leading the Gloucester Day parade, where the Mock Mayor meets the official Mayor of Gloucester in a playful exchange.

Q: What does this role mean to you personally as a Filipino British woman?

The role has no political power, but it carries deep symbolic meaning. For me, it is about honouring the courage of those who came before us, celebrating the resilience and unity of Barton today, and inspiring future generations to take pride in who they are and where they come from.

No matter your background, if you give your heart to the community, there is always space to belong, to contribute, and to build a brighter future together. – Viva O’Flynn

Taking part in Gloucester Day was a joyful and humbling moment that I will treasure forever, made even more special by having my family fly from the Philippines to witness it. Their presence reminded me that this honour is not just mine, but something we share as a family and as a community.

As the first Filipina British to hold this position, I hope my appointment shows that no matter your background, if you give your heart to the community, there is always space to belong, to contribute, and to build a brighter future together.

Looking Ahead

As Barton鈥檚 new Mock Mayor, Viva brings fresh energy to a role steeped in history. Balancing her duties with work at Gloucester City Council, studies at Gloucestershire College, and her service with the Filipino Association of Gloucestershire, she embodies the spirit of community that Barton is known for.

Her story bridges cultures and generations, a reminder that tradition thrives when it opens its doors to new voices. In representing Barton, Viva also represents the many who have made Gloucester their home, proving that belonging is not defined by where you come from, but by how you give back.