The now larger group of Independent Councillors on the Town Council attempted to flex their muscles in proposing one of their own to become Mayor and Chairman. The controlling Labour group proposed Wendy Hillary to succeed her husband Jed, but the nine strong Independents also put in their nomination for Sandra Haigh on the basis she had given ten years service and there should not be any logical or reasoned grounds for her not to be appointed.
Arun Chandran, who has joined the group of Independents following his resignation from Labour said they had nothing to fear having such a large majority and it would be better rather than having some Councillors serving as Mayor 2 or more times. Irene Hewitson also a long serving Independent councillor believed they deserved consideration and thought the system unfair. John Clare explained they held the majority vote and were democratically justified in electing a Labour Councillor to the position.
The Leader Bob Fleming simplified the argument by asking the Independents if they were in the majority would they appoint a Labour candidate as Chairman. Needless to say Wendy Hillary was duly elected and she signed the declaration. The same situation arose when voting for the Deputy Mayor. Ken Robson Independent was nominated but Labour man John Clark was elected.
It was evident the Independents were better organised at this year’s AGM. In appointing Committees places they were ready with their list to add to the Labour nominations. In previous years it was a long and tedious process as names were sought on the night. The AGM concluded with the appointment of Leader and Deputy Leader, Bob Fleming and Malcolm Iveson respectively.
IN MAIN PHOTO: Mayor Wendy Hillary with Deputy John Clark
Retiring Mayor, Jed Hillary raised £5200 for charity and is shown here presenting cheques to the beneficiaries
Left to right; Mayor Jed Hillary, Rebecca Metcalfe, Vince Crosby (Newton Aycliffe Youth & Community Centre) and Keith Johnson (Aycliffe Village Hall Association). The Rifles Care for Casualties not present.
