East Herts Council’s new chair is Bishop’s Stortford Liberal Democrat Martin Adams

Bishop’s Stortford councillor Martin Adams is the new chair of East Herts Council (EHC).

The Liberal Democrat, who was previously vice-chair, accepted the chain of office from his predecessor, Cllr Maura Connelly, a Green Party member for Hertford Kingsmead.

Cllr John Dunlop, the Green Party member for Hunsdon, was voted in as the new vice-chair.

In addition to presiding over meetings of the full 50-member council, the chair has a ceremonial role and represents the district council at civic events.

Cllr Adams, a Bishop's Stortford All Saints ward member, said: “I am humbled to be elected chairman of East Herts Council, representing this dynamic listening council for the betterment of our local communities and democracy.

“My objective for the year will be to spend time and effort in creating a more productive debating chamber for all, as a healthy public forum will certainly benefit both residents and members.”

Cllr Adams, who is also a Bishop’s Stortford town councillor, added: “I have yet to choose my designated fundraising cause but will endeavour to seek out a local organisation within East Herts to support during my term.”

During the meeting on Wednesday (May 15), the council confirmed its aspiration to win a Silver Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

The initiative recognises organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support for defence and the armed forces community, and that align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.

EHC signed up for the covenant three years ago. The authority achieved a Bronze Award in November 2022, recognising its positive approach to encouraging job applications from those transitioning to civilian life.

The council has also signed up to Operation Ascend, a Government-backed employment service that connects former members of the armed forces with veteran-friendly employers.