Clive Brain

The chairman, Cllr Stephens, announced with great sadness that former councillor Clive Brain had died peacefully at home earlier that day. Members, officers and others in attendance joined him in one minute's silence as a mark of respect. He then invited members to speak.

Cllr Martin said that it was the second loss for Cinderford West in a short period this year. Clive had borne his illness for a long time and she was glad that he was now at peace. He had been an amazing mentor and councillor with a great knowledge of the district and the history of local mining. He had also been deeply involved in the planning process. He would be a great loss as a councillor and as a friend. She knew that many shared her feelings and her sympathies went out to Clive's family.

Cllr Smart, speaking on behalf of the Conservative group, had been very sorry to hear the news. She said that although she was at the opposite end of the political spectrum from Clive, he had always been a gentleman and had been kind to her when she was Chairman of the Council. The thoughts and prayers of the Conservative group went to Clive's family at this sad time.

Cllr Hogan, who had been the Labour group leader when Clive was a councillor, said that Clive had been the very best kind of councillor. He knew his local area and what made it tick. He had always been wiling to listen to and weigh up all sides of an argument. He had been thoughtful, principled, passionate and clever and it was sad that he had died before his time.

Cllr Stephens said that he had got to know Clive quite well over the years. They had had differences, but Clive had never been afraid to change his mind after considering the pros and cons of an issue. Clive had been an excellent debater, playing a full part in the work of the council and had been a man of great principle. His feelings went out to Clive's family.

Carol service

The chairman thanked everyone who had attended or had been involved in organising the service on the previous evening. He believed that everyone had enjoyed the event, which was the first time our civic service had been a Carol service.

By-election

The chairman announced that the by-election for the Cinderford West ward of the district council would be held on Thursday 12 January 2012. The count would take place at Cinderford Bowling Club.

First Battalion the Rifles

On behalf of the council the chairman welcomed the battalion back home and wished them a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. It was also important  not to forget those who had not returned.

Swimathon

The chairman announced that the council had entered a team in a swimathon the previous Saturday to raise money for Forest Pulse. The team had come third out of eleven, just behind the Rifles and the winners Cinderford masters swimming club.