Southbourne parish council chair steps down after 26 years

Chris Bulbeck, 79, feels that having been chair over such a long period has provided the community with stable support and described being pleased to have maintained an apolitical approach throughout that time to bring councillors from different backgrounds together.

He became chair of planning in 1986 and held that position for a number of years so he has had considerable influence on how Southbourne has developed over the years.

Shy and self-effacing Chris was brought up on a farm and in 1981 he started the Southbourne Farm Shop which is now a thriving business in which all his family are involved.

Robert Hayes, a former parish council vice chair, said: “Chris is a family man and he sees Southbourne as his extended family. He has worked hard to build his business into what it is today. He leads by example and treats everyone with respect.”

He went on to describe how Chris has seen many changes over the years and has always been constructive in his chairmanship.

During his time as chair, Chris had a hand in the first parish vision plan in 2004, has seen the Southbourne Neighbourhood Plan come to fruition in 2015, the pavilion built at the recreation ground as well as the provision of benches and bus shelters around the parish.

He was also very involved in the summer fetes which used to be held on the recreation ground with stalls in aid of various charities.

Although stepping down as chair, he will remain a parish councillor.

At the parish council’s annual meeting on Tuesday May 12, held virtually, Jonathan Brown was elected as the new parish council chair.

Lyn Hicks was elected as the new vice chair.

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