TWO Westbury town councillors have resigned from their posts.
Charlie Finbow and Derek Hulin, who both represent the Ham ward of Westbury, have handed in letters of resignation. Derek Hulin was unhappy with the town council’s decision to replace town clerk, Les Fry.
He said, “To be honest I didn’t like the way that Les Fry was treated. We had all agreed that Les should stay on until the end of March. We were called to a special meeting and the next thing is that Les is finishing on the 9th [of February]. I didn’t think it was right.”
The town council has said that Les Fry requested an earlier leaving date than originally agreed, and they accepted this request.
Derek Hulin added, “I’d rather just take a step back now, I’ve been there quite a few years. I’ve taken on the Westbury Country Club with my business partner and the commitment I need to put in there takes away from the council, so I can’t do my best for the people.
“I’d like to thank all the councillors. Over the years we’ve had some laughs, some good times and hard times. I know a few people don’t appreciate the work the council do on their behalf. They certainly do work hard for the people of Westbury. Some think they’re just there to feather their nests but there’s no feathering to be done.”
In a letter to the White Horse News Charlie Finbow said, “It is with great sadness I have tendered my resignation as a Town Councillor.
“I have enjoyed an eventful, rewarding and humbling time in office. I feel deeply honoured to have served the electorate in the best way I felt I could. I also have been extremely lucky to have served alongside councillors past and present who I hold in great esteem.
“I have made a decision that was not easy for me and I hope people will respect that. I am not prepared to go into detail or bad mouth the council or councillors and I hope also people will respect that.”
Westbury Mayor, cllr Sue Ezra, paid tribute to the contributions of cllrs Hulin and Finbow, saying, “I’m very disappointed to see both councillors resign. It will be a loss to the council. They will both be sorely missed.”
The town council has officially announced the vacancies for two councillors in the Ham ward. If ten electors in the ward make a request to the returning officer in writing by Thursday 11th March, an election will be held to fill the positions.
If that does not happen then the town council can fill the vacancies by co-option.
If you would like to submit a request for an election to be held you can do so by writing to:
Andrew Kerr, Returning Officer, Wiltshire Electoral Services, Monkton Park, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 1ER.
