North Tyneside Council has elected a new chair and deputy chair at the first full council following the local elections earlier this month.
Benton councillor Pat Oliver, previously deputy chair of the council, was elevated to chair replacing Monkseaton South councillor Davey Drummond.
Mayor of North Tyneside Norma Redfearn said: “I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate councillor Pat Oliver on her new role as chairman. I know both Pat and her consort Judith Oliver have very much enjoyed their previous year in the role and I have no doubt they will successfully fill the roles and will once again be great ambassadors.”
Valley councillor Brian Burdis, also chair of the environment sub-committee, was elected deputy chair of the council, filling the position previously held by the current chair.
Cullercoats councillor Willie Samuels said of Coun Burdis’ appointment: “Chair I would like to second the nomination of councillor Brian Burdis. Brian will be a great supportive chair and a great ambassador for the borough.
“He is friendly, hardworking and a very caring person.
“As deputy chair I know he will fulfil the role with professionalism and care for the role as much as he has cared for the environment. He will be a great asset to the council and the people of the borough.”
The chairman of the council oversees business in the council chamber during meetings and is expected to represent the council at events across the borough.
The role was created in 2002 when North Tyneside voted to have an elected mayor.
During the annual council it was announced St Mary’s councillor George Westwater was appointed leader of the local Conservative group. Coun Westwater had previously been the portfolio holder for children and young people.
Mayor Redfern was also returned as head of the labour group and councillor Carl Johnson was nominated as deputy mayor.
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