New look to leadership of West Somerset Council

WATCHET Councillor Jenny Hill has been elected chairman of West Somerset Council, succeeding Councillor Pam Driver, who lost her seat in this month’s elections.
Councillor John Walker, who represents Minehead South, was elected vice-chairman.
Councillor Hill said: “I would like to thank Pam for the work she has done for the council as chairman over the last year.
“I am delighted to be taking on the role and look forward to working with all councillors.
“Over half of the council is newly elected and we are looking forward to training so that we are up to speed with the systems, and ready to move issues forward.”
Dulverton and Brushford Councillor Keith Ross (pictured) was elected as leader of the council, and Councillor Simon Stokes, who represents Alcombe East, was appointed deputy leader.
Councillor Ross said: “I am looking forward to serving the communities of West Somerset, and will take heed of their wishes.
“We will continue with the capital programme although there will be a review of projects and some elements of the corporate plan to ensure that the projects we deliver are of high quality and meet the needs of local people and businesses.
“I am looking forward to working with the other 30 members of the council, and value the contribution that all councillors can make to achieving the best for West Somerset.
“We aim to bring improvements that will benefit the social and economic well-being of local people, and increase business opportunities for prosperity and growth wherever possible.”
Cabinet Portfolio Holders appointed were:

• Housing, Health and Welfare - Peter Humber
• Finance - Doug Ross
• Economic Development and Tourism - Mike Downes
• Leisure, Culture, and Recreation - Neil Parbrook
• Environment - Jon Freeman
• Youth and Community - Eddie May
• Internal Resources - Simon Stokes

Photo submitted.

Unsung parish champions honoured by district council

SOME of the unsung heroes of West Somerset have been honoured at a ‘Parish Champions’ award ceremony organised by West Somerset Council.
Parish Champions were nominated by local people and parish councils in recognition of the significant or outstanding contribution they had made in improving the lives or environment of others.
They were presented with framed hand-written scrolls and presentation pens by district council leader, Councillor Christine Lawrence, and council chairman Councillor Pam Driver.
They will also receive individual photographs of their presentation.
Councillor Lawrence said: “I am delighted that we have been able to recognise the excellent services these people have given to their communities.
“They really are our local heroes.
“They have improved the lives and the environment around them for the benefit of others.
“I am proud of, and humbled by, their selfless dedication.”
The Parish Champions for 2007 were:
Donald Parsons, of Withycombe.
Kevin Escott and Georgina Charnock, of Minehead.
Allan Searle, of Stogoursey.
Jean Howe, Betty Penny, and David Wilkins, of Watchet.
David Lamacraft, and Judy and Robin Hewison, of Dunster.
Joe Westerdale, of Porlock.
Shirley Dee, Eddie May, and Roger, Liz, Katherine, and Megan Peeks, from Williton.
The Dulverton Co-responders, from Dulverton.
There was also a special presentation of flowers and chocolates to the directors of Westlabb Ltd, for its services to the district.
The not-for-profit organisation has provided IT training to more than 300 local residents at venues in their own parishes via the Exmoor Community Computer Centre, and provided wireless broadband to Crowcombe, Brompton Regis, and Luxborough.

• Our photograph shows Councillors Pam Driver and Christine Lawrence seated, front centre, with the Parish Champions. Photo submitted.