New Vale of White Horse District Council Deputy Leader announced

Councillor Bethia Thomas has been announced as the new Deputy Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council.

Cllr Thomas, who is also the Cabinet Member for Community Engagement, will take up the additional role from Monday (November 1).

The Faringdon resident – who was brought up in Australia – was elected as Faringdon Ward councillor in May 2019. Her professional background in supporting small businesses has been a real benefit to the Council as we support the local economy and communities through Covid.

Cllr Thomas will replace Cllr Debby Hallett as deputy leader, but all cabinet responsibilities will remain the same.

Leader of the Council Emily Smith said: “I’m delighted to announce Bethia as Deputy Leader of the Council.

“She is a hard-working and committed community led campaigner who is committed to supporting Vale residents and businesses and I look forward to working even more closely with her.

“I thank Cllr Debby Hallett for the incredible support she has given me over the years as deputy opposition leader and deputy council leader. I greatly appreciate her mentoring, loyalty and commitment to this council. Debby will continue to play a key role in my cabinet leading on corporate services and transformation.”

Cllr Thomas said: “I’m delighted to be appointed Deputy Leader of the Council and am looking forward to getting stuck in right away to carry on the great work done by Cllr Hallett.

“As Cabinet Member for Engagement, I have been listening to the views of our residents across the district and will try to reflect these in the work of the council.

“Our corporate priorities have never felt more important as the world’s attention focusses on COP26 and the climate emergency, and we are more committed than ever to deliver on those priorities.”