CLLR RICHARD BURTON ELECTED LEADER OF EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL

Councillor Richard Burton has been elected as the new leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council.
Councillor Burton, who represented Bridlington Central and Old Town, becomes just the second leader in the history of the authority after Stephen Parnaby OBE stood down earlier this month after 23 years in charge.
He was elected as a councillor 12 years ago and in that time has held the cabinet portfolio for tourism, leisure and culture as well as holding positions on planning committee, chair and vice chair of scrutiny committees, local action teams and review panels.
Away from politics, Councillor Burton has been an integral part of the Bempton parish community for many years.
Before becoming a councillor he was a special constable and a school governor as well as running a family-owned farm and self-catering holiday cottages.
Councillor Burton is also a keen artist and many of his paintings are displayed in the art gallery and tearoom which he also runs with his wife, Claire.
After the meeting, Councillor Burton said: “I’m honoured to be the new leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council.
“Stephen Parnaby has left this council in great shape, with a highly respected reputation nationally and in a strong resilient financial position.
“I want to focus on enhancing our communities, embrace commercialism and the ever changing technology world as well as delivering a sound financial strategy.
 “A good council needs well managed finances and without them you have nothing and I intend to build on our strong position although, despite the impression austerity has finished, savings of £39million still have to be made by 2023.
“We need to continue to deliver a strong economic strategy and create an environment where external investment flows in and helps to energise our residents, give them ambition and a sense of worth, particularly in deprived areas.
“The East Riding is on the cusp of major investment, particularly in Goole, which will generate greater prosperity as well as new career opportunities.
“I want to continue to shape the East riding into a place where there is great innovation and where ambition flourishes and that we can stand proud and strong alongside our economic neighbours.”

Cabinet appointments/portfolio holders
Leader of the council and cabinet chairman – Councillor Richard Burton
Deputy leader of the council and cabinet vice chairman – Councillor Jonathan Owen
Adult and carers services – Councillor Vanessa Walker
Children, young people and education – Councillor Julie Abraham
Community involvement and council corporate services – Councillor John Dennis
Enhancing communities – Councillor Mike Stathers
Local economic growth and prosperity – Councillor Jane Evison
Strategic management – Councillor Chris Matthews
Tourism, leisure and culture – Councillor Shaun Horton
Enterprise and digital – vacant.