'Nerve-wracking' day for councillor (From Barry And District News)

'Nerve-wracking' day for councillor

VALE of Glamorgan Council Chairman Anthony Powell has revealed that his inauguration ceremony was one of the most nervous occasions of his life.

And he has made it clear that his aim as chairman is to do a job that the people of Barry could be proud of.

Councillor Powell, 49, of Coleridge Crescent, Barry, has represented Dyfan Ward, Barry, since 1999.

But despite his experience living amongst the people of Barry, he says he felt uncomfortable talking to the assembled throng at the civic office in Holton Road.

He said: "This meeting was more nerve-wracking than when I once spoke to 2,000 people at a conference.

This is because I could not see all the faces and I did not know the members of the audience."

The ex-Barry league football player continued: "I was nervous as anybody would be because there were a lot of people including the Press.

"I did not want to make a mistake so publicly."

Of his main aim for the year he said: "When I go out on to the streets I want to be able to hear people say that the council is doing a good job."

A Barry boy born and bred, Councillor Powell also revealed that he would like to promote the tourism in the Vale.

By the sound of things, he is approaching the role with a healthy sense of perspective.

"I have never wanted to move away from the area because it has so much to offer.

I live near beautiful beaches and the Vale countryside is unrivalled.

"No council can be without problems but I hope we can offer the tax paying public the services they deserve.

"I feel proud that I have been given the opportunity to hold this esteemed post."

His charity for the year will be the Motor Neurone Disease Association which he wants to help because his brother-in-law Robert died from the disease.

When Councillor Powell spoke of Robert he was visibly moved and had to pause during what was an emotional speech.

Councillor Powell has been married for 28 years to Eira and has two daughters, Emma and Charlotte.

His vice chairman will be Margaret Alexander; her consort is Bonnie Bellis.