Farewell David

Yesterday was the last working day of David Turner's years as Clerk to Stone Town Council. Officially he retires at the end of the month but with outstanding holidays and leave due, yesterday was his last day at his desk. And I am very sad to see him go.

David became Town Clerk in 1997 and has been heavily involved in most of the good things that have occurred in Stone over the last 14 years. Very much a 'hands-on' projects man with vision he will be able to look back with satisfaction at the many improvements that have taken place during his stint at the helm. The most obvious example is the Stone Station Community Centre. Backed by a Town Council which had the vision and commitment, David project managed the scheme which saved a derelict Stone Station from falling into disrepair and has left the town with a facility to be proud of. And at no cost to the ratepayers! All done by way of grants!

And there are numerous other examples of his enthusiasm to progress new ideas. The fantastic 'Smile' initiative in the late nineties was one of the first and most succesful scheme of cooperation between local businesses and Town Councils to promote the town. Then there have been Christmas Lights and switch on events, street parties, cycle races, improved street markets and numerous other events that have put Stone on the map.

Interestingly, although most people regard Stone as a Tory stronghold, out of the fourteen years David has served the town, the Tories have only had control of the Council for two and a half years. Which perhaps explains why David has been able to achieve so much over the years!T he town will be a poorer place without David Turner. He was a great support to me during my three years as Chairman of the General Purposes Committee. Whoever takes his place has a hard act to follow.

And so it was that last night a group of us spent the night with David standing at the bar in The Pheasant and wishing David a happy retirement. A great get together spoilt only by the fact that I had to leave before midnight in case my wife turned me into a pumpkin!