South Gloucestershire Council

Published: 23/05/2013

Speaking at the council’s Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 22 May, Cllr Biggin thanked all those who had donated to the chair’s charity fund and paid tribute to Childline’s work supporting disadvantaged children.

The cheque was received on behalf of Childline by Heart FM Programme Controller Paul Andrew.

Cllr. Biggin said, “It has been an amazing year, which got off to a tremendous start with the Olympics and the Diamond Jubilee celebrations. Enjoying the ‘high end’ functions is only a part of my role and as always it’s the local events that touch my heart, of which there have been many.”

“I am also delighted with the amount of money raised for Childline, which will go towards additional trained volunteers, manning the phone-lines, allowing more disadvantaged children to reach out and talk to some one who can help them in their challenging lives.

“May I also take this opportunity to thank all my colleagues and officers who have supported me in my year as Chairman on the civic circuit.”

Cllr Biggin is succeeded as Chair of Council by Cllr Ian Boulton, the current Vice-Chair of Council, who will hold the post until May 2014. Cllr Boulton in turn is replaced as Vice-Chair by Cllr Howard Gawler.

Cllr Boulton said: “I am keen to support our hi-tech manufacturers, as well as promoting the innovative work being carried out in and around our Science Park and University. I want to champion the future of our hi-tech tradition in any way I can. There cannot be a better use of my time than banging the drum for South Gloucestershire as somewhere where we have the infrastructure, the people and the political willpower to entice existing global hi-tech companies, who do not currently have bases in South Gloucestershire, to set up a home amongst us.

He added: “I am also looking forward to supporting the Bristol Aero Collection and the Neo Natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Southmead Hospital. The Bristol Aero Collection is creating a major aviation heritage museum to inspire and entertain today’s and future generations by presenting the past, present and future achievements of our local aerospace industry. NICU provides care for the babies who are born prematurely in our region. My first God Daughter, Jessica, spent her brief life in their care, and her mother is also one of the dedicated team of staff working there. I hope that we can raise plenty of money in Jessica’s memory.”

The Chair and Vice-Chair of the council are elected each year at the council’s annual meeting and represent the council at civic functions, as well as chairing full meetings of Council.

Post holders welcome invitations to local activities and events, such as official openings and awards ceremonies, and can be contacted by writing to the chairman’s office at the Council Offices, Castle Street, Thornbury BS35 IHF, by telephoning 01454 863019 or by emailing louise.bennett@southglos.gov.uk