Deputy leader and councillor Chris Lamb recently announced that he will step down from May 2023 local elections.
Councillor Lamb had been serving as a Rockingham Ward Councillor for the last 12 years. He was first elected in the year 2011. A trade unionist and Unison official before that, he served four years as an independent South Yorkshire Police Authority member.
The councillor said, “It has been a great privilege and pleasure to represent the people of Rockingham, and I would like to thank residents for their support and kindness over the years.”
“My family, friends and close colleagues have known for a while that it was not my intention to stand for council again. Recent family health issues and the sudden death of my close friend Jim Andrews reminded me that we only get one go at this thing called life.
“The most rewarding part of being a councillor is supporting people. Sorting out issues and problems for people who may not be confident to speak up for themselves or feel they need a helping hand. In large organisations like Barnsley Council, it can be difficult to know which department or officer to contact. I was always happy to navigate a way through for residents and families to get matters resolved or their voice heard.”
The leader of Barnsley Council, Councillor Sir Steve Houghton CBE, also expressed his sorrow. He said, “I’m really sad Chris is moving on. He has been an excellent advocate for Rockingham and a first-class Deputy Leader. His knowledge and skills have benefited people across the council and Barnsley. Chris always made it clear he would move into other areas from next year, and I’m grateful to him for his sound advice and commitment over the last twelve years.”
It was said that everyone would miss him, thanked him for his service, and wished him luck in his future endeavours.
