Lindsey stands down

Sadly we have to report that Councillor Lindsey Fisk has decided to stand down as a councillor for Town ward with immediate effect. Addressing Town ward residents through their Focus newsletter, she says: "I have taken the difficult decision to resign as your local councillor. Unfortunately, I feel I am no longer able to put the time, energy and commitment into the work that is required and I am a person who never wants to do a job half-heartedly! May I just add a personal thank you to all those who have sent me their good wishes during this time. I hope that I may be able to return as your councillor at some time in the future".

During nearly three years as a councillor, Lindsey rapidly distinguished herself by her grasp of the work of the Planning Committee, gaining the respect of members from all groups and parties on the council in the process. She was able to help numerous constituents gain a better understanding of the planning system and how they could interact with it, whether as applicants or objectors. She served on various other committees too and would when necessary raise a question on behalf of local residents in a formal council meeting. But above all, she was a good ward councillor, always willing to listen to peoples views and problems, and help them get things done at a local level.

Her ward colleagues Charles Wood and Colin Taylor appreciated working alongside her. Colin said "The incident that residents have reminded me about the most, was when Lindsey took rapid action to have a Tree Preservation Order placed upon an ancient and prominent Turkey Oak tree, just in time to save it from the chain saw. But residents always seemed to warm to her and turned readily to her for sympathy and help in solving their problems with the council. We will miss her!"

A by-election will be called and polling day is likely to be sometime in late March.