29 August 2025
I'm back to work this week after a lovely, relaxing holiday with my Dad. I was ready for the break and spent most of the week chilling on a sun lounger.
It was my intention to switch off until my return on Tuesday, but I ended up having two meetings on Friday afternoon and then I had friends around on the evening for a meal. Over the weekend I caught up with Cllr Paul Rowling the Deputy Leader to have a catch up and to get an update after my break.
My first meeting on Tuesday was a meeting of the Tees Valley leaders for an informal catch up. After this, I chaired an appointments panel to interview candidates for the new Assistant Director of Education, Inclusion and Achievement. I would like to express my thanks and best wishes to Eddie Huntington who will retire from this role in October.
Mid-week I met with Mike Greene, Chief Executive of the Council, for our regular weekly meeting. It's been a couple of weeks since we last met so it was good to catch up. We probably speak most days on various issues and progress updates, but it had been a while due to us both having holidays.
In the afternoon I met with senior officers from the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) and Chris Renahan to discuss my TVCA Cabinet portfolio of Education, Employment and Skills. There are lots of great initiatives coming through and I am really enjoying the role.
Yesterday I met with Jonathan Nertney, Head of Democratic Services, for our regular catch up where he updates me on anything that I need to know in his area, and it also gives me the opportunity to ask questions and see what is happening in the near future.
After this, I met with a member of staff just to have a general chit chat, after he reached out to me after seeing my Q&A video with Mike. I always try to be visible around the office and often stop by desks to find out how things are going. Those that know me will testify that I can talk for England!
This morning, I visited Thornaby FC's ground, Teesdale Park, with Mike and other officers to speak with their Chief Executive, Alison McGee.
I am still playing catch up with emails and progressing case work from my Ward and I am hoping that I can start Monday without a backlog as next week is a busy week. When I switch off today, I am going to visit my nephew Sonny who is 6 today. He is a little cheeky chappy but loveable with it. When I asked him what I should buy him for his birthday, he requested an iPhone, electric scooter, a kitten and a Bugatti! I hope he is happy with a remote-controlled version.
This weekend I have no plans at the moment, but that usually changes. Whatever you are doing, have a great weekend.
