Yahoo News Northumberland county councillor steps down as chairman after three years in role
A Cramlington councillor has stepped down as chairman of Northumberland County Council after three years at the helm.
Coun Barry Flux was in the chair for the final time at Wednesday's annual general meeting. The Cramlington West councillor was replaced by Coun John Beynon following a vote at County Hall.
The vice-chairman of the council for the coming year will be Coun Daniel Carr, who replaces Coun Catherine Seymour. At Wednesday's meeting, tributes were paid to Coun Flux following his time in office, which has seen the council navigate some difficult spells including the publication of the Max Caller report into governance at the council.
Chief executive Dr Helen Paterson also presented Coun Flux with a ceremonial tankard as he passed on the chains of office.
Coun Flux said: "Can I take this opportunity to thank members for their contributions and support over the past few years. I feel I live the office of chair with the council in a healthy state.
"I have been very encouraged by our meetings this past year, which I think have had a good balance of challenge and debate. Long may this continue - I wish my successor all the best in their future role."
Coun Beynon said: "Barry and the civic head have set the bar very high. I will try to live up to him and those before him, Coun (Richard) Dodd and Coun (Scott) Dickinson.
"On behalf of the council, I would like to thank Coun Flux for the last three years. These meetings are a bit less exciting than they used to be and debate is more measured and considered.
"The manner of the meetings is certainly friendly, and long may that continue. Well done to Barry, you have done terrific work."
Coun Beynon added that he would be supporting the Young Lives with Cancer charity during his time in office, as well as other causes that would be announced in due course.
Passing on her chains of office, Coun Seymour revealed she had raised £18,490.33 for her chosen charities over the past year - The Samaritans, MND and the Stroke Association.
