Helston Town Council bids a fond farewell to Town Clerk, Chris Dawson, who has served the Council as Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer for over 16 years when he retires at the end of this year.

Chris, who was born in Helston, admits that he feels "privileged" to have been able to hold this position in his hometown, saying that it was his Father's proudest day when he became Town Clerk.

Paying tribute to the Town Clerk, the Mayor of Helston said:

"Chris has worked tirelessly for the benefit of the Helston Town and our Council. Chris has seen us through both good times and hard times and has done so with professionalism and good character. We all wish him and his family a happy and healthy future."

Prior to joining Helston Town Council Chris had gained 21 years' local government experience working with Cornwall County Council, Cornwall College and Carrick District Council.

He put this experience to good used during his time at Helston assisting in the achievement of a number of awards including the Local Council Award Scheme Quality Gold status in 2017 and runner up National Council of the Year.

Chris particularly values the support he was given by fellow Clerks when he commenced his role and the camaraderie that developed over the following years and is pleased to have been in a position to help others in a similar manner.

During his time with the Council Chris was a Member of the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) and has served as both Chairman and Secretary for SLCC Cornwall Branch.

Chris and his wife, Donna, hope to move to Portugal early in the new year and commence their retirement under sunny skies.

Deputy Town Clerk, Pamela Lavelle, who will be taking over the role of Town Clerk in January said:

"It has been a pleasure to work with Chris for the last 15 years and I have learnt a lot from him. I wish him all the best for his retirement."

Due to the current restrictions, a virtual farewell event will take place via Zoom between 12.30pm and 4pm on Wednesday 23rd December and anyone who would like to pass on their best wishes can drop in.

If you would like to attend please contact Pamela Lavelle on [email protected] for joining details.

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