New Mayor takes up the chain of office

Councillor Harry Ellis took up the chains of office as mayor after stepping up from the deputy position at the annual council and mayor making ceremony yesterday.

He takes over from Coun June Cliffe and the new deputy will be Coun Kevin Barker.

Council leader Peter Box said:“I am sure they will both represent the district with commitment and dignity and I hope they enjoy their year in civic office.”

Councillor Ellis was born in Ackworth in June 1947 and started work in 1963 as an apprentice electrician at Ferrybridge Power Station.

He went on to spend all his working career in the power industry and serves in the Knottingley ward since 2010.

He married his wife Janet in July 1970, going on to have children Wayne, Barry and Jane.

The council’s controlling Labour Group made changes to a number of positions in the cabinet after the recent local election.

Councillor Graham Stokes lost his place as member for Modern Public Services and was replaced by Coun David Dagger.

Councillor Matthew Morley was promoted from assistant to a full cabinet member for Transport and Highways in his place.

Councillor Jo Hepworth became the new deputy cabinet member for Transport and Highways, while Coun David Jones replaced Coun Jack Hemmingway as assistant member for Economic Growth and Skills.

And Coun Jessica Carrington joined as deputy cabinet member for Adults and Health.

She will replace Coun Michelle Collins as assistant to Coun Pat Garbutt.

Cabinet members and assistants for Culture, Leisure and Sport, Children and Young People and Environment and Communities will remained.

Councillor Box said last week: “I would like to welcome all the new members joining the cabinet team.

“I am confident that this team of cabinet members and assistants includes the right blend of knowledge, experience and new blood to serve the district well.

“We continue to face tough times and my Cabinet and I will meet these challenges head on.”