SAYING goodbye to an action-packed year as Harlow Council chairman is Paul Bellairs, who hands over his chains of office tomorrow (Thursday).

The 65-year-old councillor, from Altham Grove, Harlow, said it had been an honour to serve the council and to represent a town of which he was very proud.

He had enjoyed the hectic social life involved with the position, but was now looking forward to stepping down to concentrate on his duties as county and district councillor.

Speaking to the Citizen, he said: "It has been a privilege and an honour.

``I was proud to represent Harlow because I am proud of the town and the things it does. I have always stood up for Harlow.

"One of the things that has struck me is how everyone at the council is dedicated to their job and I would like to thank everybody who has helped and supported me over the year, especially the incoming chairman John McCree and my wife Dorothy."

Describing the demanding social side of the job, Mr Bellairs said: "Dorothy and I have attended over 100 events and I have attended another 100 by myself. I have been busy juggling everything with my council duties."

But the departing chairman said these occasions had been worthwhile and fulfilling.

His most rewarding moment was at a Presidents' Sporting Club celebrity event for special needs children.

He recalled: "It was wonderful to see the smiles on the children's faces and the enjoyment they got from meeting famous people such as Frank Bruno."

Other momentous occasions included the presentation of the chairman's civic awards, which he said achieved his aim of recognising young people and residents involved in sport and art.

He was also proud to have raised £1,500 for his selected causes - the heart unit at Princess Alexandra Hospital and the Harlow Community Chest, which helps residents pay one-off debts.

Having served eight years as a councillor for Mark Hall North ward, Mr Bellairs is now looking forward to seeing the council's future plans blossom, including the regeneration of the town centre and new sports facilities.

The pensioner also has his work cut out as Harlow's Netteswellbury councillor on Essex County Council.

He is a member of the council's influential education committee.

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