'I am in pain': East Ayrshire Provost makes emotional farewell as he steps down

dailyrecord.co.uk:

East Ayrshire’s long service ‘Rock n Roll’ Provost Jim Todd has stepped down from the role for health reasons, with his depute Claire Leitch stepping up as his successor.And there was a slight surprise as veteran councillor and former Labour group leader John McGhee was elected depute provost.Both positions were unanimously agreed.

Councillor Todd cited issues with the need for a hip replacement and the impact this had amid the hectic Provost’s schedule.However, he will remain as an SNP councillor for Kilmarnock South.Councillor Todd was elected Provost in 2012 and held the post twice, up until 2021 and after a year where councillors Barry Douglas and Sally Cogley took on the civic roles, returned in 2022.He has also been a councillor for almost 18 years, having been elected in 2007.SNP colleague, councillor Claire Leitch, becomes the youngest East Ayrshire Provost, having been elected as councillor and depute provost in 2017.Annick councillor John McGhee takes on the mantle of depute provost after more than two decades representing the people of Annick.Councillor Todd said: “I’m absolutely privileged and honoured to have sat in this chair all of these years.

It has been a privilege and that is due to all of you, past and present councillors, who have supported me, no matter their political persuasion.”He thanked officers for the support he has received, particularly the staff working in the Provost’s office.He continued: “We have got the best council in Scotland and I really mean that.

Thanks very much folks it has been an absolute blast.“I am in pain now and that is the reason I am standing down. I need another hip and hopefully that can come quick.“It’s alright on the motorcycle, as I can stretch my leg out.“It is the