Handforth Parish Council changes name to move on from ‘Jackie Weaver’ viral row
A council which went viral after a turbulent Zoom meeting was shared online has changed its name to move away from its “toxic” past.
The meeting also made the stand-in clerk Jackie Weaver a household name when then-chairman Brian Tolver’s remark she had “no authority here” became a meme.
We have a new name and three new councillors and along with the other remaining councillors are committed to improving HandforthChairman John Smith
Watch: Angry Parish Council Meeting Goes Viral
The now-famous Ms Weaver is no longer acting as clerk but is expected to be switching on the town’s Christmas lights on November 27.
New chairman John Smith said the council had been renamed Handforth Town Council because they wanted to “move away from the toxic side of Handforth”.
Since the meeting, two councillors have resigned while Mr Tolver has relinquished his chairman duties, but remains a councillor.
Mr Smith said: “We have a new name and three new councillors and along with the other remaining councillors are committed to improving Handforth.
“We are also moving away from the viral, toxic Handforth Parish Council as portrayed on YouTube and are leaving it behind.”
He also explained how the move was down to feeling among councillors that Handforth residents would identify more with a secular-sounding name as opposed to the religious connotations of “parish”.
He said: “Many residents have understandably believed that Handforth Parish Council is in some way attached to the church. For those of a certain age, the Vicar of Dibley comes to mind.”
Watch: Return of Handforth Parish Council dogged by arguments and public interruptions
Read More
Camilla praises Commonwealth during award ceremony for essayists
Stab victim was last violent towards partner more than 20 years ago, court hears
Rishi Sunak reveals his Budget warm-up: A Twix and a can of Sprite
