Adur District Council chooses new chairman

A councillor has become the first citizen of Adur for the second time in five years.

Peter Metcalfe was elected Chairman of Adur District Council at its annual meeting, taking over the chain of office from Cllr Ann Bridges.

Cllr Metcalfe, who lives in Southwick and represents Southwick Green, has served as a councillor for nine years and first became chairman in 2012.

He told of his delight at becoming Chairman for a second time, saying: “It was totally unexpected. I absolutely loved it before and I’m really looking forward to serving as Chairman again and having the opportunity to meet people and see the great things that are happening in Adur.”

The new Vice Chairman is Cllr Joss Loader, who lives in Shoreham and represents Marine ward.

Read on to find out more about the new Chairman.

What is your background?

After serving in the Armed Forces for 11 years, I retrained as a financial adviser. Thirty-two years later, I still enjoy my meetings with clients. My wife Rosemary and I have been married for 38 years and have two children, Sarah and Martin, and three grandchildren.

How do you relax?

I’m never one to sit still. Golf, cycling and walking allow me a great way to enjoy our area and relax.

Why did you become a councillor?

The change from having no particular interest in local politics to absolute concentration came about when our street was threatened with a block of overbearing flats which were totally out of keeping with the conservation area. We were successful in stopping the inappropriate flats with the help of Cllr Janet Mockeridge and others, so this began the thought process that if you don't like the system, there’s no point in standing on the sidelines moaning. If things need changing, join whatever organisation it is and try to change it from within. That's what my motivation was. Now it is to help others facing challenges from whatever direction.

What are your priorities for the coming year as Chairman?

I would, on behalf of the Council, extend our congratulations to Brighton and Hove Albion for their terrific promotion to the Premier League. Of course, with their top class training ground in Lancing, I would like to think we have been part of that success and I would like to work with the Albion to bring the benefits to the residents and schools of Adur. It’s a tremendous opportunity for us and one that I shall be looking forward to.

Which charities will you be supporting as Chairman?

My charities this year are:

·         St Barnabas House – a local charity offering support, a hospice and care for patients with cancer and other life-limiting conditions

·         Building Heroes – a charity which, as a veteran myself, is very dear to my heart. It provides skills and training for military veterans and support back into employment in the building trades. The aim is to tackle unemployment for those who have put their lives on the line for us

·         Macmillan Cancer Support – supporting and offering advice to reach and improve the lives of everyone living with cancer and to inspire millions of others to do the same

·         Citizens Advice – providing free, confidential and independent advice to help people overcome their problems.

I hope as many people as possible will support me in raising funds for these and other charities this coming year.

What makes Adur a special place?

Shoreham, Lancing and Southwick – the main towns of Adur – along with our villages of Fishersgate, Coombes and Sompting offer so much diversity and beauty. With the timeless backdrop of Lancing College, our very successful Shoreham Port and the ever changing River Adur – from which, of course, we get our name – snaking its way down to the sea from the South Downs, it's a joy being in such a lovely location.