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Councillors are bid farewell as they stand down

29/ 4/2008

POLITICAL foes parted as friends when Hyndburn Council said goodbye to two long-serving members.

Council leader Peter Britcliffe, Labour leader Graham Jones and Independent leader Malcolm Pritchard paid tribute to Councillors Jean Battle and David Myles, who have both decided to stand down, at their last council meeting.

During his tribute to Councillor Myles, Councillor Britcliffe said: “You will probably be remembered in the Conservative ranks as someone who made us laugh when you ripped apart your own budget. But as a leader of the Labour group, you were always someone I could do business with.”

Councillor Myles was elected in 2002, spent some time as Labour leader and worked on the Planning Committee.

Councillor Jones said: “I think he has worked hard in the council and is a very loyal member of the Labour group.”

The council presented long-serving Councillor Battle with a photo and flowers.

Councillor Britcliffe said: “Over the years, I really have to confess, Jean has become my council wife. She has managed me and lectured me like all good wives do. We have also had a lot of fun.“

She was elected to the council in 1990 and served as Mayoress in 1995-1996. She will continue to represent Accrington on Lancashire County Council.

Councillor Pritchard said: “Jean and I go back a long time. I want to thank her for her years of service to Hyndburn Council and for all the good times.”