THE YOUNGEST ever chairman of Wychavon District Council has pledged to use his year in office to shine a spotlight on the issues affecting young people.
Coun Gregory Wilkins took on the chain after being elected at its annual council meeting last Wednesday (May 13).
He will be joined by Coun John Clatworthy (Hampton ward, Evesham), who was elected vice chairman.
At 24, the Conservative, Droitwich South West councillor has the honour of being the youngest person to take on the role – beating Coun George Duffy, chairman in 2024/25, by three years.
As chairman, Coun Wilkins will represent the council and the district at civic and ceremonial events. He will also perform the important role of keeping order in the chamber during council meetings.
Coun Wilkins said as well as giving a voice to young people’s issues, he also intended to highlight the help on offer from the council and voluntary sector to support people struggling with the cost of living.
“It’s an honour to be Wychavon’s youngest ever chairman.
“The fact my fellow councillors are willing to trust a young person with an important position like this, when young people are not always listened to or given a chance, is a testament to the kind of council Wychavon is.
“With local government reorganisation on the horizon, I’d like to use this platform as an opportunity to encourage more young people to engage with our work and get involved in local politics.
“But most of all I want to get out and see as much of our amazing district as possible.
So, if you are a community organisation, voluntary group, school, event organiser – whatever it is, please let me know as I’d love to pay you a visit.”
Coun Wilkins will be supported during his year in office by his mum Kelly Riding.
Outgoing chairman Mark Goodge carried out more than 80 visits during his year in office, but he said the highlight had been handing out Wychavon Community Stars to individuals and groups in recognition of their contribution to the district.
“It has been a privilege to meet so many people putting a huge amount of effort into the work they do to make a difference to their local community and the wider district.
“These are the people that make Wychavon the special place it is.
“But I know there are many more people out there doing amazing things we haven’t yet said thank you for.
“So please get those nominations in as I know Coun Wilkins is as keen as I was to recognise as many community stars as possible,” he said.
Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/community-stars to find out more and nominate.
Wychavon District Council will cease to exist on April 1, 2028 as part of central Government’s local government reorganisation plans.
To contact the chairman’s office to invite him to an event, email: [email protected] or call 01386 565679.
