All change at parish council

ALL yours . . . outgoing chairman Dave Murphy (left) hands over the chain of office to Councillor Chris Stephens

SHAW and Crompton Parish Council chairman Dave Murphy has handed over the reins after a successful year.

Councillor Chris Stephens officially took over from Councillor Murphy at last night’s parish council general meeting.

Councillor Murphy supported RNLI and Dr Kershaw’s Hospice this year and managed to raise almost £2,000 over his time as chairman.

The retiring chairman described his year as “phenomenal”.

He said: “I’ve been overwhelmed by the support I’ve received from my charities, especially the RNLI, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart.”

Incoming chairman Councillor Stephens has lived in Shaw for nearly 40 years and became a parish councillor in 2011. He and chairman’s lady, Margaret Stephens, received the mayoral chains at last night’s ceremony.

He said: “It is an honour and a privilege to be chairman of Shaw and Crompton Parish Council for the coming year. This year is the 150th anniversary of the formation of the Crompton Local Board, formed to improve local facilities and promote a sense of civic pride. I’m hopeful we’ll continue with these ideals.”