Meet the first Filipino-British Mock Mayor of a historic UK city

Gloucester, United Kingdom, witnessed a truly momentous occasion when Viva Andrada O’Flynn was joyfully announced as the Mock Mayor of Barton for the 2025-2026 term. This was a moment that resonated far beyond the UK, as Viva became the first British Filipina ever to hold the esteemed title, instantly turning her into a community icon and a source of international pride.

The announcement was a vibrant highlight of Gloucester Day 2025, a massive annual celebration that took place on Saturday, September 6. Thousands of people had poured into the streets, filling the city with color and energy to celebrate Gloucester’s resilient spirit.

While the day celebrated history, the appointment of Viva was a celebration of its modern, diverse future. The tradition of the Mock Mayor of Barton dates back to the 1600s when, following the Siege of Gloucester in 1643, residents outside the city walls elected their own playful “mayor” as a declaration of independence. Today, that centuries-old tradition is organized each year by Town Crier Alan Myatt, and with Viva’s appointment, it officially entered a new, inclusive chapter.

As an established entrepreneur, artist, writer, and active community leader, Viva promised to inject her unique passion for creativity, inclusivity, and community spirit into the role. She shared that it was a profound honor to be chosen for the position, explaining that the Mock Mayor represented Barton’s long history alongside its welcoming modern community. Her dedication to service was already well-known as she had recently been recognized at the House of Lords, where she received a prestigious award from the World Humanitarian Drive for her heartfelt humanitarian efforts.

Viva declared that Gloucester was a city where various cultures beautifully converged, and she aimed to use her term to champion joy and togetherness for all residents.

To immediately engage with her community, Viva launched her first major event as Mock Mayor: the FUNtastic Fair. This fair took place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the historic St Mary de Crypt, providing a perfect backdrop for the community gathering. From 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, visitors enjoyed free entry and explored a vibrant marketplace showcasing local talent. The event featured various craft and gift stalls from talented makers, including TR Gifts, Ethel Cat Creations, Aravalli Studios, and her very own Love Viva Crafts.

Viva emphasized that the fair was dedicated to celebrating local creativity and communal solidarity. Following the success of Gloucester Day 2025, the FUNtastic Fair successfully ensured that the city’s spirit of heritage, humor, and unity continued to shine brightly under her leadership.