The CONSERVATIVE party has gained a majority on Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, which also sees an influx of newly-elected representatives following an all-out election. Here, we have spoken to all 16 new candidates to find out a bit about them and what they hope to bring to the role.
Sean Dillow (Conservative, Winklebury & Manydown) is a delivery driver for Ocado. The 54-year-old said he’s “not a political man” but was keen to represent the ward as it embarks on the Winklebury Centre regeneration and Manydown projects, “to make sure it’s done right”. Mother-of-four
Abigail Compton-Burnett (Conservative, Winklebury & Manydown) lives in Wootton St Lawrence and is a governor for Hampshire Hospitals and a Besom charity trustee. The former nurse says health is top of her agenda, particularly “making communities as strong as possible so people can look out for each other.”
THE WIDOWER of former Mayor and beloved Kempshott councillor of 25 years Anne Court says he is looking forward to continuing the work she did in the community. Richard Court was announced this afternoon (May 9) as one of three successful Conservative candidates in the Kempshott and Buckskin ward, and gained the highest number of votes in the area - outpolling both cabinet member Hayley Eachus and fellow new candidate Aji Peter. He told the Gazette that while he’s a new councillor he is not a new face to the community, having supported his wife Anne in her numerous duties over the years.
COUNCILLORS have paid tribute to former mayor Anne Court, who passed away last month. The respected and dedicated public servant had been a member of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council for 25 years. At the first full council meeting since her death, mayor of the borough, Cllr Diane Taylor, led tributes. Our thoughts are dominated this evening by one of our colleagues who is sadly missing, she told councillors. I am sure I speak for everyone when I say that the sudden death of councillor and former mayor Anne Court has come as a great shock and brings immense sadness. A funeral was held for Cllr Court, who served the ward of Kempshott, at St Nicholas Church in Newnham on Wednesday.
Unfortunately, limited number of people will be allowed to attend the church service due to Covid-19 restrictions. Those who wish to pay their respect by lining the funeral route while maintaining social distancing, are welcome to do so. The cortege will enter Coniston Road, via St Marks, at 10.45am and leave via the rugby club entrance. The funeral will not be broadcast online. The restrictions mean Cllr Court will not have the send-off she would have deserved, but the family will be arranging a memorial service in the new year, once restrictions allow them to do so. Cllr Court described as “passionate and funny” had passed away November 24 overnight.