Cllr Colleen Atkins MBE has been elected as the new Speaker of Bedford Borough Council following the Annual Full Council meeting on Wednesday evening (15 May).
The long-serving Labour councillor, who represents Harpur Ward, was first elected in 1988 and has held several senior roles during her tenure, including portfolios for Community Safety, Regulatory Services, and Housing.
She takes over the role from outgoing Speaker Cllr John Wheeler (Conservative/Kempston Rural and Wootton Ward).
Cllr Atkins said it was “an honour and a privilege” to be appointed Speaker and thanked her colleagues for their support.
“I have enjoyed my time as Deputy Speaker and would like to thank the former Speaker, Cllr John Wheeler, for his generous invitations to events over the past year,” she said.
“It’s now an honour and a privilege to be appointed Speaker, and I thank everyone for their support in nominating me.”
Respect of all councillors
The nomination was made by Cllr Abu Sultan, Leader of the Bedford Borough Labour Group, who said: “I was so happy that one of my first tasks as the new Leader of the Labour Group was to nominate Cllr Atkins for the role of Speaker.
“Colleen is at the heart of the Labour Group and has served the residents of the Borough for many years. She has the respect of all councillors and I know she will manage Full Council meetings in an even-handed manner.”
Deputy Group Leader, Cllr Sue Oliver, added: “Colleen will also enjoy representing the Council at events throughout the Borough and continue to serve the residents of Harpur Ward whilst carrying out her formal duties to the highest standard.”
The role of Speaker includes chairing meetings of Full Council and representing the Borough at a range of civic events such as church services, religious festivals, graduations, fetes, and public ceremonies.
The Speaker is elected for a one-year term at the Council’s Annual Meeting each May.
