Mayoress gains the nickname ‘Pat in the Hat’

Ever since the beginning of her role as mayoress, Mrs Lamb has wowed crowds with her array of colourful hats and fascinators at events including the mayor’s charity concert in Priory Park, charity auctions for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and the 50th birthday of KeyMed.

Icon - Pat Lamb with Miss Essex Georgie Goodey

Stylish - Pat Lamb celebrating a bus route’s 100th

Visitors and residents have awarded her the iconic nickname and she is delighted.

The 82-year-old from Leigh, said: “To be known as Pat in the Hat is quite funny really, but it is an honour.

“Being mayoress is a once in a lifetime role for me, so it’s important to look presentable and approachable. I want to do it right.

“I keep a diary record on what I’ve worn and to what event, so that I don’t repeat my outfits or hats two days running.

“When people have been looking for me they’ve been told to just look for a hat.

“I wear black and white, multicoloured hats, all sorts.

“It’s quite overwhelming, but I do really appreciate all the compliments which I’ve received. Someone even told me I’m the best dressed mayoress they’ve seen in 50 years.”

Pat’s sophisticated look was inspired by none other than the Queen herself.

Typically, she purchases her stylish headwear from shops such as Debenhams, H&M and Marks & Spencer.

She continued: “The Queen always looks so lovely and tidy, and that’s how I like to present myself.

“I have 19 hat boxes with about two or three in each, so over time I’ve made quite the collection.

“I try to plan what I’m wearing in advance, so I will look at the clothes rack and then pair the hat I think most appropriate.

“During the Christmas period this year I’ve planned to wear a red coat with white accessories like a hat or fascinator with gloves. My dad used to say if you ever want to get ahead, wear a hat. There is a hat for everyone.”