Parish councillor wins top local government award

Lorna Berrett won the title of Councillor of the Year

A local councillor has been awarded Councillor of the Year by the National Association of Local Councils (NALC).

Lorna Berrett, chair of Botley & North Hinksey Parish Council in Oxfordshire, won the title at the Star Council Awards.

Councillors from East Cowes Town Council, Isle of Wight, and Odiham Parish Council, Hampshire, were also celebrated.

NALC chair Keith Stevens praised winners on their "exemplary dedication and outstanding contributions to local governance".

The Star Council Awards celebrate individuals showing "exceptional talent, innovation, and dedication in supporting their communities", the NALC said.

Ms Berrett, who has been a councillor for eight years, was one of five finalists for the Councillor of the Year award.

She won because of her 'tireless' work to improve council services, the NALC said, including her work to support vulnerable people during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ms Berrett said she "really enjoyed" being a councillor, adding: "I try to build on all the amazing work by volunteers and workers across our community."

She said by working together with the communities, parish councils "can make a bigger impact than many expect".

The Star Council Awards took place at the House of Lords

Also among the winners were Cameron Palin from East Cowes Town Council who was awarded Young Councillor of the Year, and Andrea Mann from Odiham Parish Council who was awarded Clerk of the Year.

Mr Stevens said the contributions of all the winners "have made a lasting impact".

"As we celebrate your achievements, we also celebrate the resilience, creativity, and leadership defining local governance's heart," he said.

"Well done to all the winners – you are true stars in the tapestry of community service."