For details of the Order of Proceedings please see page 5.

In nominating Councillor Bond for the office of Deputy Mayor, Councillor Werner stated that he had known him for over 35 years from when he was helping in a local elections campaign in 1987. Councillor Bond had taught him that being loud was not the way to be effective, he thought him diligence, perseverance and hard work. He stated that Councillor Bond had advised him to consider in decision making how less fortunate people would be affected and what could be done to empower them. He advised that residents in Belmont also used words such as diligence, perseverance and hard work to describe Councillor Bond. He reflected that Councillor Bond was the one Councillor, over the past four years, that every Councillor from every party would stop talking to listen to. He reported that Councillor Bond was very humble and there was a long list of charities that he had supported over the years including setting up Wild Maidenhead and Maidenhead Foodshare, MaidEnergy and the Crauford Arms. He noted that those attributes were perfect for the role of Deputy Mayor.

In seconding the motion, Councillor Price commented that his quiet but determined style would prepare him for the role. Councillor Bond would be supported by his consort, David Armitage. David had applied his food science studies in his career at Rank Hovis McDougal Research Centre. During retirement he has actively campaigned for clearer labelling on food products so that those without perfect vision can read the ingredients. David is helpful, supportive and sociable and also has an enquiring scientific curiosity which were ideal attributes as consort to the Deputy Mayor.

It was moved by Councillor Werner, seconded by Councillor Price, and:

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: that Councillor Simon Bond be appointed Deputy Mayor of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead for the ensuing Municipal Year.

The Chief Executive declared Councillor Simon Bond duly appointed Deputy Mayor. Councillor Bond made the Declaration of Acceptance of Office, witnessed by Councillors Price and Hill.

In his speech of acceptance, Councillor Bond said he it been a privilege to represent the residents of Belmont ward and wanted to thank them for electing himself and Sian martin as their Ward Councillors. He reflected that when he was approached about becoming Deputy Mayor he had been surprised as it was outside of his comfort zone. He added that everyone says it is a great opportunity to learn about life across the borough through the voluntary and community sector which was something he was looking forward to do. He reflected that it was never too late to learn something new and considered that with the new Council this was something everyone would be doing a lot of. He thanked council officers and councillors for the various lessons he had learnt on his Council journey so far. He was looking forward to working with the new Mayor over the coming year and thanked everyone for giving him the opportunity.

Councillor Bond then presented Mr Gary Muir and Caron North with their past Deputy Mayor’s and past Deputy Mayoress’s badges.