Newbury Town Council confirms new leader and deputy
David Goff replaces Julian Swift-Hook at Conservative-controlled council
NEWBURY Town Council has announced its new leader and deputy leader following the recent local elections.
The council was previously run by the Liberal Democrats, but is now under the control of the Conservative Party.
As a result, former leader Julian Swift-Hook (Lib Dem, Pyle Hill) has been replaced by councillor David Goff (Con, Clay Hill).
Tony Stretton (Con, Clay Hill), the Conservative group leader, was expected to become council leader but declined to take on the role - claiming that he had to put his livelihood and work commitments first.
Speaking at a Newbury Town Council on Wednesday May 13, Mr Stretton said: "Being self-employed and a leader does not mix and I have to put my livelihood first and think about my wife and my work.
"It would not be fair to everyone here and the residents of Newbury if I was to be leader so the best thing to do was to step back and allow someone else to take over the reins."
He added: "It has been an absolute pleasure working as opposition leader for the last four years. I could not have asked for a nicer group of people who have supported me when the going got tough, especially when I was unwell."
Speaking at the same meeting, Mr Goff said: "I want to say thank you to my group for wanting me for this position. It is a great honour and privilege and I will serve to the best of my abilities."
Councillor Anthony Pick (Con, St Johns) has been appointed deputy leader.
Martha Vickers (Lib Dem, Northcroft) is now group leader for the Liberal Democrats. Newbury Town Council now comprises of 18 Conservatives and five Liberal Democrats.