Shaw-cum-Donnington council chairman steps down after 12 years

A local councillor has stepped down as chair after years of service.

After more than 12 years as a parish councillor for Shaw-cum-Donnington — spending the last eight as chair — Bill Graham stepped down from chairmanship at a recent parish meeting.

He has passed on the responsibility to fellow councillor Margo Payne, a former mayor of Newbury, and his colleagues wish to pay their respects to his years of dedicated community service.

Mr Graham, described as being a “hands-on” councillor, has been actively involved in recent discussions surrounding new housing developments in the parish; speed reduction measures; organising summer parties at the Recreation Ground; and in the lighting of several beacons at Donnington Castle.

He has also taken personal charge of maintaining the children’s play equipment, regular litter clearance and updating parish noticeboards in the three constituent villages of Shaw, Donnington and Long Lane.

Mr Graham has lived in the parish since 1987 and was a civil engineer by trade.

Speaking about why he became a parish council chairman, he said: “It seemed to me there was no point in being chairman unless you try to drive change a bit, which is what I’ve tried to do.

“It’s been quite demanding of my time I suppose. So when I got to 85, I thought it was time to retire.”

His council colleagues commissioned a special commemorative plate from Ursula Waechter, which they presented to Mr Graham at a recent meeting in recognition of all his hard work.

“That was a big surprise,” added Mr Graham. “I genuinely wasn’t expecting anything, but what they came up with was very nice and I am very grateful. I’ve got it hanging in my study.”

Mr Graham also shared his advice on what he believes makes an effective parish council chairman.

He said: “I think everyone has their own style. I hesitate to tell anyone how to a job like this.

“You’ve got to find your own level and what you’re comfortable with, and what you feel your councillors and the parish will be comfortable with.”

And speaking about his successor Mrs Payne, he added: “She is very sound; I’m sure she will be excellent.

“I am very happy with her appointment.”

“Bill has always been known as a hands-on councillor,” said fellow councillor, Glyn Thomas. “He has taken a personal interest in every aspect of the community, which he has served with such dedication.”

But Mr Graham is not leaving the parish council entirely.

He intends to stay on as a councillor for the foreseeable future to continue sharing his wisdom and experience on important parish matters.