THE YOUNGEST ever Wychavon District Council chairman has been elected, writes Stan Mills.
And Coun Gregory Wilkins has pledged to use his year in office to shine a spotlight on issues affecting young people.
Coun Wilkins, who is just 24, took on the chain after being elected on May 13.
The Droitwich South West councillor will represent the council and the district at civic and ceremonial events.
Coun Wilkins will also perform the important role of keeping order in the chamber during council meetings, as well as giving a voice to young people’s issues.
And he has vowed to highlight the help on offer from the council to support those struggling with the current cost of living crisis.
He said: “It’s an honour to be Wychavon’s youngest ever chairman.
“The fact my fellow councillors are willing to trust a young person with an important position like this, when young people are not always listened to or given a chance, is a testament to the kind of council Wychavon is.
“With local government reorganisation on the horizon, I’d like us to use this platform as an opportunity to encourage more young people to engage our work and get involved with local pundits.
“But most of all I wanted to get out and see as much of our amazing district as possible.”
He urged community organisations, voluntary groups, schools, event organisers and others to get in touch to arrange a visit.
Coun Wilkins will be supported in his year in office by his mum Kelly Riding, with Coun John Clatworthy as his vice chairman.
Outgoing chairman, Coun Mark Goodge, carried out more than 80 visits during his year of office.
He said: “It has been a privilege to meet so many people putting a huge amount of effort into the work they do to make a difference to their local community and the wider district.
“These are the people that make Wychavon the special place it is.”
To contact the chairman’s office to invite him to an event, email: [email protected] or call 01386 565679.
