New Chairman and Vice Chairman take office

Bill Chapple is the new Chairman of Buckinghamshire County Council.He received the chain of officefrom retiring Chairman Zahir Mohammed at the annual council meeting today (Thursday May 21).

The new Vice Chairman is Val Letheren.

Bill, a County Councillor for 38 years, who represents Aston Clinton and Bierton, paid tribute to Zahir’s year in officeduring which he led celebrations ofthe County Council’s 125th anniversary.

During his own year in office, Bill wants to show gratitude to the County Council’s 1,200 volunteers, celebrate community milestones, such as the centenary of the Women’s Institute, and show staff how appreciated they are in their roles.

‘I’ve had the privilege of working with our officers over 38 years, and I want to hold on to that close bond and express my personal gratitude,’ said Bill. ‘And to our volunteers, who are the backbone of our county and enhance our high reputation, I want to show our thanks.’

Bill, a father and grandfather, also aims to support the reputation of schools in the county which, he says, are renowned for high standards.

His passion for education dates back to 1977, when he stood for election to help Buckinghamshire’s campaign to keep its grammar schools, at the time under threat of abolition.

‘I fully intend to continue working with the council for years yet,’ Bill said.’I see my year as a happy year.’

Bill welcomed Val Letheren as Vice Chairman in what, he said, promises to be a busy year.

Bill’s chosen charity during his year of office is the British Liver Trust.