Reform’s Jan Goold elected as new chairman of Nottinghamshire County Council

A new chairman has been elected to represent a council at civic events across Nottinghamshire.

Reform UK’s Jan Goold, who represents Stapleford and Broxtowe Central on Nottinghamshire County Council, will wear the chain of office as the authority’s chairman for the next year.

She read out the acceptance of office at a full council meeting on Thursday, May 22, swearing she would ‘duly and faithfully fulfil the duties of [the chairmanship] to the best of [her] judgement and ability’.

Ms Goold added: “I’m honoured and grateful to stand before you today, and it is with great humility that I accept the position of becoming madam chair of Nottinghamshire County Council.

“This is an accolade I could never have dreamt of receiving. A thousand thanks for placing your trust in me — I will not fail you.”

She spoke of her pleasure of first meeting the council staff at county hall, and her years of experience at borough council level.

The new chairman’s chosen charity is Pulp Friction, a social enterprise which supports people who have learning disabilities and autism to develop their social independence and work-readiness skills.

“Throughout most of my life, and particularly as a councillor, I have made it my business to shine a light on some of the unsung heroes and heroines who make our communities a better place to live and thrive,” Ms Gould added.

“I will always lend support and encouragement where I can… I’m truly looking forward to a very full and busy year.”

Ms Goold takes over the post from outgoing Conservative chairman Richard Butler, who represents Cotgrave.

He said: “It’s an honour to be the chairman of the council and in effect the first citizen of Nottinghamshire, which is my home county.

“I said at the beginning of my term that I hope to attend events all over the county, in each borough and district. I have visited areas of Nottinghamshire that I was not previously familiar with, and I intend to visit again in my own time.

“We have a wonderful county that we should all be proud of, and I know we are.

“We also have wonderful people, and I have met so many this year — in particular who are often unsung and unrecognised, but get on and do things to make their areas better for themselves and others.”

During his year in office Mr Butler attended 107 civic events, with his personal highlights including two royal visits — of HRH The Princess Royal, and the Duke of Gloucester — his civic service at Southwell Minster, 11 citizenship ceremonies, and his work alongside the Lord Lieutenant, Deputy Lieutenant, and the High Sheriff.

He added that he was “very grateful” to Johno Lee for serving as his vice-chairman and his support in attending civic events.

Mr Butler’s chosen charity was Headway Nottingham, which provides help and support for patients and families after head and brain trauma. A total of £4,728.49 was raised for the cause during his chairmanship.

He added: “Thank you to colleagues past and present who put their trust in me to be your chairman for the past year, it’s been hard work but very rewarding, and it’s probably one of the proudest things I’ve ever done.”

Former vice-chairman Johno Lee’s role was taken on by Christopher Adegoke.