Labour name council’s new executive board

LABOUR have named their team for Warrington Borough Council’s new executive board, following last week’s local elections.
There are two main changes – new deputy leader of the council Graham Friend – as already announced –  and new lead member for culture and leisure Tony Higgins (pictured).
Cllr Friend will be responsible for JCC/Trade Union liaison, borough-wide partnerships – much as his predecessor Cllr Mike Hannon did.
Cllr Higgins wiil take over the role of former councillor Kate Hannon, who was de-selected prior to the elections.
All other portfolio holders and areas of responsibility remain the same – although all positions need to be formally ratified at the next full council meeting.
Leader of the council Terry O’Neill said: “Tony Higgins will make a great addition to the new executive board.
“The residents of Fairfield and Howley will vouch for Tony because he has done a lot of really good work with local residents associations and community groups.
“But Tony has also been active in borough-wide initiatives like the Warrington Arts Council and the local Civic Society.”
Cllr Higgins added: “I am really honoured to take up this important role.  Warrington needs a thriving local economy but I’m going to work with our partners because it also needs a vibrant culture and leisure sector so that people are proud to live in the town and raise their families.”
The other members of the executive board are: Cllr Russ Bowden, corporate finance;  Cllr Jean Carter, children’s services; Cllr Judith Guthrie, environment and public protection; Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, public health and wellbeing; Cllr Hans Mundry, highways, transportation and public realm; Cllr Hitesh Patel, personnel and communications; Cllr Pat Wright, health and adult social care.