New LTC Chairman - Leigh-on-Sea

Share this story!

Leigh On Sea News: New LTC Chairman – LEIGH Town Council has announced the appointment of a new Chairman.

New LTC Chairman - LEIGH Town Council has announced the appointment of a new Chairman.

LEIGH Town Council has announced the appointment of a new Chairman.

The Annual Council meeting, held on Tuesday, May 20, resulted in the appointment of Councillor Dr. Bowry as the new Chairman.

Coun Bowry, who represents the Herschell Ward, was a Community Dentist working for Southend PCT and has been a Town Councillor since May 2020, being re-elected in May 2023.

Coun Bowry takes on the role from Coun Bernard Arscott, who held the position for the two previous years.

Coun Bowry said: “I have lived in Leigh with my wife and family for 37 years and our four children all attended local schools.

“Now retired, I worked as a community dental surgeon for Southend PCT providing clinic based, domiciliary and hospital-based care for many of the disadvantaged groups in our community.

“I was co-opted onto the Council in May 2020 during the Covid pandemic and then elected for Herschell Ward, together with my colleague Judith Sutling, in the May 2023 local elections.

“It is both an honour and a privilege to have been elected as Chairman of Council for 2025-26 and I look forward to a busy year working with all my Councillor colleagues to help improve the lives and environment for all our residents.

“We have already embarked on an extensive programme of repair and refurbishment at the Elm Road Community Centre, including the very popular cafe area.

“In addition, we have also run hugely successful ‘Easter Fun day’ and ‘VE Day Celebration’ events this year and with the help of our highly resourceful and experienced staff I know we will continue to move forward this coming year with even more events and activities for all to participate in and enjoy.”

Taking on the role of Vice Chairman is Owen Richards, who has been a councillor for Thames Ward since 2024.

Coun Richards, who has lived in Leigh for 10 years, works at a senior level for the NHS, including in partnership roles with local authorities.

Through his professional life, he brings experience in working with communities and representing their views to decision-makers through his current role as Chief Officer at Healthwatch Southend.

Coun Richards said: “As one of the new independent Town Councillors, I was honoured to be appointed as Vice-chair of the Council.

“I’m looking forward to working with all my fellow Councillors and the staff of the Council to make Leigh a great place to live, work and visit.

“We have so many opportunities to work with local residents, the City Council and other partners to do this.”

Town Clerk Clare Milligan said: “Both Councillors bring a fresh new approach to the Town Council and we are looking forward to working with them, the year ahead and the exciting times these will bring.”

Picture: Coun Bowry is the new chairman.

about author

Editor