THE NEW chair and vice chair of South Gloucestershire Council has been announced.

Cllr Franklin Owusu-Antwi (C, Bradley Stoke North) was elected as chair by fellow councillors at a full council meeting on Wednesday, May 15.

Councillor Owusu-Antwi moves into the role after serving as vice chair last year.

Meanwhile, councillor Katie Cooper (L, Staple Hill and Mangotsfield Ward) has been elected as vice chair this year.

The chair and vice chair perform important ambassadorial roles, including representing the council at civic functions and chairing council meetings.

They also attend events such as official openings of new buildings, launching new projects, award ceremonies, local festivals, concerts, church services, schools and care homes.

Each year, the new chair selects a charity to support for the year ahead, with donations received during that time presented at the end of the chair’s term of office.

Gazette Series: New vice chair Katie Cooper (left) and new chair Franklin Owusu-Antwi (right)New vice chair Katie Cooper (left) and new chair Franklin Owusu-Antwi (right) (Image: South Gloucestershire Council)

Councillor Owusu-Antwi, chair of the council, said: “First and foremost I would like to thank my fellow council members for electing me to this office.

“It was an honour to sit at the side of councillor Mike Drew in my role as vice chair last year, and to also now take the chain and carry-on with the tasks ahead for the ensuing year.

“I look forward to representing the council and to a year of constructive and healthy debate, while always maintaining respect for each other.

“I would like to announce my chosen charity for the year ahead which is Gympanzees, an organisation that offers children and young people with disabilities opportunities to keep active by providing an accessible play, exercise and social facilities.”

Outgoing Chair, councillor Mike Drew, said: “I would like to thank everyone who has supported me through my year as chair including community members, fellow councillors and the officers who have been so helpful with the many events I have been involved with.

“I would also like to wish Franklin all the best during his tenure as chair for the year ahead.

“It has been an honour to have served in the position for a second time and I am delighted to have been able to support the Motor Neurone Disease Association, Bristol and Bath Group as my chosen charity.

“Thanks to everyone who contributed and supported the fundraising efforts, the money raised will go towards helping those affected by the disease and their families.”