Cllr John Baverstock, Ward Member for Stokenham, was elected Chairman at this year’s Annual Council meeting on Thursday 13 May.  

He became a Parish Councillor for Stokenham in 2001 and was elected to the District Council in 2007 representing Stokenham Ward.  In 2009 he stepped down as Parish Councillor to devote more time to his District duties.

Born in Plympton, he grew up in Devon and joined the Devon Constabulary at 16 years of age, rising through the ranks to be Chief Inspector and Sub Divisional Commander - South Hams at the time of his retirement.

He has chosen the Devon Air Ambulance Trust as his nominated Charity for the year.  

Cllr Baverstock said “over the years I have seen the amazing work carried out by the Air Ambulance and believe it is essential to retain this service, especially as it can be impossible to get people to hospital quickly by road due to distance and congestion situations.  Speed is of the essence in these circumstances and with our narrow lanes and coastal resorts this is of immense value to residents and visitors to Devon."

Cllr Baverstock’s aim is to strengthen the links with the community in a variety of ways.  He is also our Member Champion for Children & Young People and through his instigation the Council took part in The Youth of Today's Local Councillor Shadowing Programme run by the British Youth Council, making the Council the first in the country to complete this national Programme.  He will continue his work with children and young people with characteristic gusto.

He wishes to encourage teamwork at every level within the Council, strengthening links with the community we serve and hopes to further enhance the reputation and standing of the Council.

John lives in Stokenham with his Wife Ann; they have two daughters and five grandchildren.

Chairman's Events [pdf]

Future charity events will be posted on this web page, so watch this space.