New Mayor in town at Spennymoor

Cllr Derek Taylor was named Mayor at the Town Council’s Annual Meeting, which also saw outgoing Mayor, Cllr Ian Geldard present a cheque for £14,000 to chosen charities, The Learning Library, County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust and Moors in the Community.

His second term in the hotseat, Cllr Taylor served as Mayor in 2016-17. He said:

“I have lived, and made my home, in Spennymoor for more than forty years – it is a town that I love and feel honoured to represent.

“It is a proud moment for me to be selected as the civic head at such an exciting time. The town’s ongoing regeneration, potential new investment and fresh approach at the Town Council feels like we’re on the brink of something special and hopefully our residents feel that too.”

Cllr Taylor worked in the Highways Section for Sedgefield District Council (later Sedgefield Borough Council) for 32 years, where he was steward, branch treasurer and chairman with trade union Unison.

Subsequently transferred to Mears, which was contracted to housing association Livin, he worked there for eight years as the unadopted highways inspector.

Between 1978 to 1986, Cllr Taylor proudly served with ‘D’ Company 7th Bn Light Infantry, based in Villiers Street, rising to the rank of Lance Corporal. He added:

“When I retired, I stood for, and was elected to, the Town Council, ultimately securing the honour of serving as Mayor.

“I once again offer my services to the people of Spennymoor, and I hope everyone will support me in my role and help us drive forward our town to a successful present and future.”

The Mayor is to host his “At Home” event on Saturday 29 June 2024 in Spennymoor Town Hall from 10am until 12noon – an opportunity for the public to meet the Mayor and his consort, Mrs Debbie Taylor. Everyone is welcome, entry is free, and light refreshments will be provided. All funds raised will support the Mayor’s charities.