Popular eco councillor steps down

Coun Terry Gaussen is leaving the village after 41 years as he and his wife Emily are moving to Suffolk to be closer to their family.

Recognising his contribution to Boston Spa, Parish Council Chairman Keith Blake presented Mr Gaussen with a commemorative plaque which will be positioned on a new bus shelter outside St Mary’s church which the councillor set in motion.

Coun Blake said: “It is a fitting tribute to a village treasure.”

Mr Gaussen was originally co-opted onto the council because of his knowledge and skills in relation to ecology, conservation and the natural environment.

Councillor Kevin Alderson said: “In no time at all he had a voluntary working party group meeting every week to work on improving paths and woodland management tasks.

“So, when people are enjoying the beautiful riverside walks in Boston Spa, spare a thought for the hard work of Terry and his volunteers that made this possible.

“This early work has developed, with Terry’s leadership, into a full Woodland Management Plan that ensures the right work is carried out at the right time throughout the village protecting and enhancing local greenery for everyone’s benefit.

“The new green spaces on the Churchfields estate, including the stunning limestone grassland meadow, are now owned and managed by the Parish Council on behalf of the community as a result of Terry’s influence.”

Over the years Mr Gaussen has tackled many issues, including litter and speeding traffic but he added: “Getting involved in local planning, getting to know what is going on in the community and meeting many local people is a real benefit of being a councillor.”

He added: “You get to contribute directly to improving your local environment, you get to see the results of this work as well as meeting a lot of people that perhaps you wouldn’t otherwise do, what’s not to like? The role is very fulfilling and very engaging, I will miss it.”

As a member of the Village Hall Management Committee Mr Gaussen has been directly involved in the many improvements that have been made.

Coun Blake, thanked Terry at his last Parish Council meeting this week and added: “Terry has been a stalwart of the council for many years, making a huge contribution to the village as a whole but especially in relation to the natural environment.

“He will be impossible to replace but we all thank him very much for his wonderful work over the years. He will be sorely missed.”

Terry paid tribute to the numerous councillors that he has worked with over the years and picked out the Parish Clerks for especial praise.

Anyone interested in becoming a parish councillor, should apply to: [email protected]