A NEW Mossley Town Councillor has defended her co-option, despite living outside the area.
Bev Bennett has also stated her plans for her home town.
Eyebrows were raised when it was announced Dukinfield resident Bev would replace Sally Davies, who resigned just months after being elected in Lancashire Ward.
However, the now Cllr Bennett believes she can add to the place she calls home.
She told The Correspondent: “I was born and raised in Mossley as were my two sons. I also have many family members and long standing friends in Mossley.
“Being appointed councillor, I feel, is a real chance for me to make a dedicated contribution to the community where my family covers many generations.
“I am looking forward to working with my new colleagues on the Town Council to bring forward ideas for the community and to help to make a real difference for people.
“My experience is in public service gained in front line NHS service for many years and also assisting Greater Manchester Police.
“I have the values, commitment and compassion which I have learned from service to the public sector that I feel will give me a real insight and empathy with people.
“This is a real privilege for me. I am looking forward enormously to my new role.”
Any questions over Cllr Bennett living away from Mossley were answered by clerk Mike Iveson, who said: “Bev lives within a three-mile distance from the parish boundary and is therefore eligible to be a Mossley Town Councillor.”
Now colleague Hamza Aslam added: “We did advertise out to the town and had two members come forward.
“On the night, it was decided Bev fit the role. She has very close connections to Mossley and her pitch made that clear.
“She has worked in Mossley before also.”
Following Cllr Bennett’s co-option at Mossley Town Council’s meeting on Wednesday, October 18, the authority explained the process.
It said: “The vacancy was filled by Beverley (Bev) Bennett of Fir Tree Crescent, SK16.
“The Town Council had published notices inviting electors to petition for a by-election to take place.
“In the absence of the requisite number of residents requesting a by-election, the Town Council had the power to co-opt persons to fill the vacancy.
“The Town Council invited residents to seek co-option and those residents who expressed an interest were invited to deliver a presentation at the Town Council meeting prior to the Town Council making their decision.
“The Town Council now has a full complement of nine members.”