New Arun chairman’s appointment a ‘massive privilege and honour’

During an online meeting, Amanda Worne (Yapton) took over from fellow Lib Dem Jeanette Warr (Bognor - Hotham), with independent Jim Brooks (Bognor - Marine) named as vice-chairman for 2020/21.

Mrs Worne called her appointment ‘a massive, massive privilege and an honour’.

Leader Dr James Walsh said: “Amanda has shown herself to be a huge enthusiast for the community, for the council of Arun and for all the people of Arun.

“She’s thrown herself with great gusto into everything she’s done and become incredibly involved in so many things large and small across the district.

“She is such an excellent ambassador, it is hard to think who could do a better job.”

Mrs Warr has been chairman for the past year, helping to raise money for the Sussex Snowdrop Trust, which provides care for terminally ill children.

Outgoing Conservative leader Terence Chapman thanked her for her work.

He said: “Being chairman is a privilege but it’s also full of responsibilities and I think Cllr Mrs Warr has done extraordinarily well in difficult circumstances.

“She’s been chairman with great grace and dignity – and above all she’s also had to battle with not being too well. So I think she’s been very courageous and overall a very effective as our chairman.”

Mrs Worne’s charity of choice will be PASCO – the Parents & Carers Support Organisation, which support children with disabilities and their families.

Speaking after the meeting, she said : “I am determined that the current situation will not hamper my work as chairman and am very keen to keep in touch with the residents of the district as and when regulations allow, to be active with the Arun community and beyond, as an ambassador for the district.

“As we emerge from this crisis, I would like to meet those that have worked hard to get us through this safely and learn about community groups and the support they have offered.”

Mrs Warr added: “Being the chairman of Arun District Council has been an honour. I have met so many interesting and hard-working people and have been proud to represent the district at many events.

“Of course I am sad that this year has not ended as I had hoped but would like to thank everyone for the support they have given me and to encourage our residents to stay safe and do their bit so that we can all get out and about again.”

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