Cllr Richard Townsend becomes first Bishop’s Stortford mayor elected for three consecutive terms

The first mayor of Bishop’s Stortford to serve for three consecutive terms was elected on Monday night.

Liberal Democrat Cllr Richard Townsend, who represents Parsonage ward, was the only nominee for the post. The widower and father of three was joined by deputy, Cllr Murray White, for a second consecutive year.

Cllr Townsend, also an East Herts Council member, said: “I’m delighted and honoured to serve for a further term.”

Allen Burlton served as mayor in 1993-94, 1994-95 and 2004-05. Keith Warnell was civic leader in 2001-02, 2016-17, and 2020-21.

Cllr Diane Hollebon, still an East Herts Council member, wore the chain of office in 1995-96, 2007-08 and 2014-15.

The meeting began with a minute’s silence for former mayor Ralph Gilbert, who died last month. The former town and district councillor was mayor in 1990-91 and 2003-2004.

Cllr Townsend said the silence was “a mark of respect and a mark of commemoration for all he did for the town, the district and the county”.