Agenda item
Chairman's Remarks
The Chairman to report on functions attended since the last meeting and other matters of interest to Members.
Minutes:
The Chairman reported that former Councillor and Honorary Alderman Geoff Findlay had passed away on 10 November 2017.
He was also saddened to report that Councillor Kathleen French passed away on the 17 November 2017.
The Chairman asked the Council to observe a minute’s silence as a mark of respect and an opportunity to reflect on the lives of Geoff and Kathleen.
Councillor Graham Jones reported that Honorary Alderman Geoff Findlay OBE was known to approximately half the members in the Chamber, having been elected to the Council in 2003 when Councillor Jones was Leader of the Opposition. Geoff was quickly appointed to the Shadow Executive and later the Executive.
Councillor Jones reported that Geoff embodied dedication: he was the master of his brief and a master of detail. Geoff’s service was also admirable: he worked 80-90 hours per week. Finally, Geoff was a conscientious man who lived to work despite the health issues he suffered in later life. Councillor Jones stated that Geoff was the most dedicated Councillor he had ever worked with.
Councillor Garth Simpson reported that he had first met Geoff Findlay while working on Richard Benyon’s election campaign and had got to know him better through Cold Ash Conservatives. He was a hard worker, holding four portfolio jobs including a role on Cold Ash Parish Council to which he had made a significant contribution. Tributes at Geoff’s funeral had also revealed his commitment to education, his work ethic and that he was a keen sportsman. In recent years he had become frail however had still been committed to public service and served as the Chairman to Cold Ash Parish Council. Geoff had been married to his wife Jill for 62 years and was part of a strong loving family.
Councillor Hilary Cole reported that Geoff excelled in everything he did, including as an off-piste skier. She particularly remembered the hard work he put into the Council’s waste contract and stated that the recycling centre at Padworth would be his legacy. Officers had also valued his input.
Councillor Cole also recognised the commitment of her predecessor, Kathleen French. She noted her thanks and remembrance.
Councillor Adrian Edwards stated that he knew Geoff during their time in the armed forces and that he was renowned for his skills as a cricketer.
Councillor Edwards also remembered Kathy French from their time together on Newbury District Council. She had been a good Councillor and put the residents that she represented first. She had been well known in her village and Councillor Edwards recalled her parties that he would cycle to.
Councillor Tony Linden stated that Geoff Findlay was dedicated and admired.
The Chairman reported that he, the Vice-Chairman and former Chairmen had attended 67 events since the last Council meeting.
In particular he highlighted the Lord-Lieutenant’s Awards Ceremony, the ghost train ride at the Michaelmas Fair with former vice-chairman Councillor Jeanette Clifford, the Queen’s Awards for Voluntary Service Ceremony, the Road Death Memorial Service, the opening of the new autism unit for Fir Tree Primary School and the wheelchair basketball match between the Queen’s Award team Thames Valley Kings and the Gloucestershire Blazers.