TONIGHT is the final full council meeting of the civic year before they all go off to do battle in the general and local elections.
For seven councillors it will be the last time that they will take their seat in the orange hue of the council chamber.
Peter Maynard, Richard Bingley, Carl Morris, Peter Harris, John Everett, Marion Canavan. Maureen Pearce and Barrie Lawrence all take their final bow in what is guaranteed to be an emotional evening.
For former Mayor, Cllr Barrie Lawrence, it is an evening tinged with sadness. Since suffering a heavy fall at christmas, Barrie has reluctantly recognised that he needs to concentrate on his health.
Barrie, in many ways, has been a councillor’s councillor. Always there to defend the residents of South Ockendon whether it has been the Development Corporation’s plans for the Flowers Estate or the planning application at Benton’s Farm. A touch of Old Labour and therefore a vital part of history.
