Posted on 27th May
Newark and Sherwood District Council formally elected a new chairman and vice-chairman during its annual meeting.
The meeting began with nominations for the new chairman, which included a speech from the proposer, Coun Sylvia Michael, who nominated Coun Sue Saddington.
She said: “I have known Sue since 1999 as we were both elected as councillors on to Newark and Sherwood District Council. Since that time I have found Sue to be a true and honest friend. She is hard working, committed and a dedicated councillor and if elected this evening Sue will be a wonderful ambassador for this council.”
Coun Ivor Walker then seconded the nomination for Coun Saddington, who was unanimously elected to the post of chairman for the next civic year.
Coun Saddington had been vice-chairman during the past year and had supported the previous chairman, Coun Penny Rainbow, during Full Council committee meetings.
Coun Rainbow congratulated the new chairman and reflected back on the past year.
She said: “I know you’ll have a good year and will do it extremely well so congratulations. I came into this position [as Chairman] during Covid and if you recall we were meeting socially distanced via Teams at the time.
“I put the chain on myself, but that’s history and we move on. I know I was the first person elected on Teams and I sincerely hope I’m the last to be elected by Teams too.
“I’ve done this role with a great deal of pride and I have felt very privileged to have done that.
“There’s been many and varied events I’ve been involved in. I’ve lit a beacon, raised a few flags, planted a tree, been at the unveiling of the Irena Sendler statue and attended many civic services, so it really has been a tremendous year and I thank you all in having the trust in me on doing that on your behalf.”
Coun Rainbow chose Citizens Advice Sherwood & Newark as her chosen charity as chairman and raised £1,010 during the year. This doesn’t include the collection from the Civic Service, which will be added to the final total.
In thanking Coun Rainbow for her service, Coun Bruce Laughton, said: “It would be remiss of me not to stand and thank Penny for her civic year. We all know Penny is an absolute star.
“I now live in Southwell and I see all the work that she does on behalf of residents and staff and I can ensure you it is a lot.
“I’ve watched Penny over the years and a difficult year with Covid and the implications that has had, but Penny, as per usual, has taken it in her stride and delivered for our residents.”
Newly-elected chairman, Coun Saddington, then made her opening speech, saying: “Thank you for your support. I’m looking forward to my year as chairman and representing all members in all wards of the council. Thank you Penny for inviting me to be your vice-chairman last year and, despite starting your year as chairman with Covid still very much in evidence I’m sure it wasn’t easy wearing a mask during events.”
Also elected as vice-chairman was Coun Lydia Hurst, of Balderton South ward. Coun Ronnie White made the proposal with Coun Johno Lee seconding.
During the event leader of the council David Lloyd was re-elected. Coun Roger Blaney made the proposal with Coun Jack Kellas seconding.
