A FORMER Kidderminster Mayor has taken over the role of chairman of the district council.

At a full council meeting on Wednesday evening (May 25), Councillor Rose Bishop took over the role of chairman of Wyre Forest District Council from Councillor Chris Rogers.

Nominating her for the role, Councillor Marcus Hart, leader of the district council, said she was a “true community champion”.

Cllr Hart said: “It gives me great pleasure to formally propose Councillor Rose Bishop as chairman for the council for the forthcoming municipal year.

“Rose is a true community champion involved in many organisations within her local ward and in the wider community.

“Many of you will know Rose has just finished a year as Kidderminster Mayor and what a full year that was for her. So having very ably chaired the charter trustees, which then drifted into the very first town council for Kidderminster.

“I am sure that she will be a very able chairman of this council and it gives me great pleasure to formally propose her for this role.”

Cllr Bishop will raise funds for the Kidderminster and District Youth Trust during her year as chairman of the district council. 

During the meeting Councillor Juliet Smith was also appointed as the vice-chairman of the district council.

Cllr Hart also paid tribute and thanked retiring chairman, Cllr Rogers, at the meeting.

He said: “Cllr Chris Rogers has had a very full and eventful year – we have seen him undertake many civic engagements on behalf of the district council.

“Also, of course, we thank him for soldiering on – I mean, falling off a horse just before its time to start leafleting and canvassing. He has soldiered on with the very able support and assistance of his consort Annie Ball.

“To both you, chairman, and to your consort, on behalf of the council, we thank you most sincerely for flying the flag over Wyre Forest and the wider Worcestershire area.”

Cllr Rogers said: “I would like to say a huge thank you for electing me as your chairman for the past 12 months.

“Over the past year it has been my privilege along with my consort and partner, to represent Wyre Forest at many functions both locally and further afield.

“Having had the opportunity to share experiences with other civic leaders, I can assure you Wyre Forest has a great deal to be proud of.”