Mayor of Taunton and Chair of SWT Council

33 club members, 2 Rotarian guests and 1 other guest were on hand to hear from Taunton Mayor, Councillor Francesca Smith and the Chairman of Somerset West and Taunton Council, Councillor Hazel Prior-Sankey.

Francesca said she was both learning the role of Mayor and reinventing it as the Mayorality has now reverted just to the unparished area of Central Taunton. She believes it is important for a town like Taunton to retain the history, traditions and prestige of having a Mayor.

Hazel combines her role with being granny to 12 grandchildren, puppy walking and looking after Adrian! Her work as “chair” has 2 principal parts – Firstly managing the 58 councillors during meetings, planning the business and helping to ensure that everything is done correctly. The second she describes as ‘gladhanding’ – representing the District council in and to the community at every level.

She stressed that contrary to popular impression, 90% of business is by consensus. It is the controversial 10% that makes the news. She says all views need to be heard and no political party has a monopoly of good ideas.

In answer to questions – both councillors said they do the job mainly because they can help people to make a difference and because it is both very interesting and rewarding.

Announcements and Club business: 

President Kathryn said all members will shortly receive a review from the Taunton East Development Trust (Halcon). She said the club can be proud of its involvement.

She had recently presented an award on behalf of the club at the Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership – an opportunity for useful networking and she ‘picked up’ an additional sponsor for our Tech Awards.

Tony Tucker (RC Kloof) reported that after financing 25 youths through technical and construction training the FE trust which both clubs have been supporting has had to close as its premises are no longer available. However RCK are now backing a new construction training facility and they invite our club to support their work.

The Disabled Disco* is at the Holiday Inn this Sunday at 7pm. All invited.

Paul Hughes is engaged to be married (and was red faced).

Club council will meet Dec 2nd at 7pm.

Next meetings: Dec 4th, Breakfast at Miles.

Dec 9th SGM and business at SCCC DR J Shorney.

Dec 16th – Christmas dinner and entertainment at Oake Manor. DR S Smith (assisted by M Lock). For members it is assumed that 2 will attend unless we are advised. An email will be sent shortly to all those who have not made their intentions clear. Please respond.

Ball Draw won by Paul Hughes but still no joker.