Frugal Fred begins ‘15 minutes of fame’

Retired accountant Fred Lewis, former chairman of Lancing Parish Council, took the place of Mike Mendoza as the ceremonial figurehead of Adur District Council.

Mr Lewis, who described himself as frugal, said he was looking forward to his new role.

“I look at this assignment as my fifteen minutes of fame,” he said.

“I am only sorry that my father-in-law is not here to see me as chairman because he was the one who influenced me to take up council work.”

Fred was educated in London, worked for a large motor company, and has four children.

In acknowledgement of Mr Mendoza’s efforts as chairman, Mr Lewis said: “I will do my utmost to be as good as my predecessor.”

Outgoing chairman Mendoza thanked his colleagues for their support and advice during his time in office, and his wife Jennifer who was by his side at almost all the engagements he attended.

“I have to say I have loved every moment of it,” he said.

The former chairman attended around 400 events over 13 months, sometimes three a day.

Looking back at highlights of his year, Mr Mendoza spoke of the opening of the Adur Ferry Bridge by the Duke of Gloucester, and the Holocaust memorial day hosted at the Sir Robert Woodard Academy.

He also mentioned the tragic loss of 22-year-old Lance Corporal James Brynin, shot dead on patrol in Afghanistan in October.

Councillor Carson Albury was elected to serve as deputy chairman.

Councillor Neil Parkin was re-elected as leader of the council, with councillor Angus Dunn replacing Julie Searle as his deputy.

Mr Parkin has been leader since 2000.

Chief executive Alex Bailey introduced Adur and Worthing councils’ four new directors.

John Mitchell is director for communities, Paul Brewer for digital and resources, Scott Marshall for economy and Jane Eckford for customer service.

The UKIP opposition leader will be councillor Paul Graysmark.

The chairman’s charities for the coming year will be the Dogs Trust and Electric Storm Youth.