New convener is “humbled” by appointment

The newly elected convener of Orkney Islands Council, Councillor Steven Heddle, has described his appointment as “humbling”.

While congratulating his colleagues on their appointments, he added: “Obviously now there will be a period of consolidation. I am conscious of everything I said about inclusiveness and openness and I will work hard with my colleagues to achieve these aims.

“I would like to pay tribute to Councillor Hagan for everything he has done over the last nine years. This morning when I woke up I just had to live up to being Steven Heddle, now I have to live up to being Steven Heddle and Stephen Hagan. It is a daunting prospect.”

The new vice-convener, Jim Foubister, added: “The immediate future will involve a lot of difficult decisions with a reduced budget and increased demand. The council will need to work together to provide the best services within limited resources.”

The next full meeting of the council is due to take place on July 12.