Council Chairman helps fight the downturn

In recognition of the effect that the recession is having, the Chairman of West Berkshire Council, Councillor Keith Chopping, has decided to cancel his annual Civic Reception that was due to take place on Thursday 2nd April.

He has asked Officers at West Berkshire Council to suggest areas where the consequent saving of around £4,000 can be donated in order to help mitigate the effects of the recession.

Councillor Chopping explained:

"In normal times a Civic Reception would have been an excellent opportunity to meet people from across the County and the District and to thank them for their hospitality and for the valuable work that they are doing in our communities."

"This year, though, as the recession is having such a major impact on people and their families, I just did not feel comfortable with the prospect of this event taking place."

"I very much hope that it will be possible to reinstate the Reception before too long as it is an important event for the Authority and it would be a pity not to be able to recognise the many voluntary workers who do so much for us."

Issued on 2 March 2009 by West Berkshire Council