Peterborough born arts-lover is new chairman of South Kesteven District Council

Coun Breda-Rae Griffin was born in Peterborough and lived in Ufford, Cambridgeshire, before moving to Stamford 30 years ago.

She used to be a teacher at the former Exeter School, on Empingham Road in Stamford and has a keen interest in the arts and, as well as teaching Latin American and ballroom dancing, enjoys supporting local productions.

Coun Griffin is also a member of the Peterborough Embroidery Guild and has travelled extensively, visiting Australia, Iceland, America and many parts of Europe, Singapore and Scandinavia.

She takes over the chain of office from Coun Jacky Smith, who served an extended term due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Coun Ian Stokes becomes vice-chairman.

Coun Griffin was Mayor of Stamford for 2019-20 and has been a district councillor for nearly ten years.

She said: “Being Mayor gave me an insight into other civic areas and the district of South Kesteven as a whole, including our strong links with the RAF and Royal British Legion, and I am sure this experience will help me in my role as Chairman of SKDC.”

Coun Griffin represents Stamford All Saints and is a town councillor for Stamford All Saints South.

She has been closely involved with the South Kesteven Community Fund and is a supporter of Stamford In Bloom, Stamford Air Cadets and the 2017 Squadron.

She began her term as chairman by paying tribute to her predecessor, Coun Smith, who represents the Grantham St Wulfram’s ward and was first elected to the council in 2011.

Coun Griffin said: “I have known Coun Smith for a long time and worked closely with her where possible during her time as chairman. She carried out her role with energy and enthusiasm and I know I have a tough act to follow. She has continued her work within the limitations of pandemic advice and has done a superb job to boost the charities she has supported during her 16 months in office.”

Coun Griffin’s chosen charities are CLIC Sargent cancer charity and the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance.

Council Leader Coun Kelham Cooke also paid tribute to the outgoing chairman, saying: “During her term of office, Jacky undertook around 120 events whilst still performing her role as a councillor.

“I was privileged to be invited to be Jacky’s consort for the term of office and have enjoyed attending several events with her. I wholeheartedly thank her for her commitment and perseverance to ensure that the council has been well represented.”