Watford Borough Council elects Simon Feldman as new chairman

Cllr Simon Feldman was formally announced as the local authority's new chairman at an annual council meeting on Tuesday (May 23).

The role lasts one year, and will see Cllr Fieldman undertake the duties of leading full council meetings, acting as the official representative of the council and becoming a figurehead in the community.

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He currently represents the Stanborough ward, having been elected as councillor in 2021, has lived in Watford since 2014, and has "developed a love for the town, which he considers home".

The councillor lives with his fiancée, Jenny, and their rescue dog, Liquorice.

The trio enjoy walking around local parks, going on long hikes and documenting their travels on their blog.

Life has not always been so comfortable for the new chairman, who has chosen Hertfordshire Mind as his charity for the year, having previously gone through two mental breakdowns.

He now intends to "create a mental health-friendly town", which offers support to anyone who needs it.

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Speaking of his experiences with mental health, Cllr Fieldman said: "I know how hard it is to get up again, find the support you need, and the challenges faced in getting help when you need it.

“With the fallout from the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, more and more people are facing challenges every day that can become overwhelming, and all seem too much.

"Access to help can be a hurdle, but there is light at the end of the tunnel, and I want us as a town to support those in need and be there for each other.”

New Watford Borough Council vice-chairman Dawn Allen-Williamson. (Image: Watford Borough Council)

The councillor also spoke of his "delight" at being chosen as chairman, and his pride at representing the town.

Cllr Dawn Allen-Williamson has also been chosen as the council's vice-chairman.

She said: "I look forward to undertaking the civic representation of the borough during the next twelve months and visiting as many local community organisations as I can.”

Watford mayor Peter Taylor.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor hailed the "great" contributions of both councillors, adding: "They will be able to visit the many and varied community organisations with which Watford is blessed – and recognise the enormous contribution which they make to the health and well-being of the town."