Worthing’s Bob to stand down at next county council election

Bob Smytherman (Lib Dem, Tarring) has been a memorable part of life at County Hall since 2009 but will not defend his seat at next May’s election.

Mr Smytherman, who puts his healthy vocal chords to good use as Worthing’s town crier, said: “I have enjoyed my 12 years and hopefully made a positive contribution to many discussions.

“Now just feels like the right time in my life to focus on other community activities – especially with my new town crier regalia.” 

That new regalia has been made by Bognor Regis town crier Jane Smith, with the help of crowdfunding by the Worthing Journal & Worthing Lions Club.

As well as serving on the county council, Mr Smytherman is a member of Worthing Borough Council, acting as mayor in 2013/14.

He is not due to defend that seat until 2022 and said he would decide nearer the time whether or not to stand again.

A message from the Editor, Gary Shipton:

In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news, I am asking you to please purchase a copy of our newspapers.

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news and information by buying a copy of our newspapers.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the most rigorous standards in the world. But being your eyes and ears comes at a price. So we need your support more than ever to buy our newspapers during this crisis.

Stay safe, and best wishes.