A minutes silence was held as a mark of respect for former Borough Councillor Ms. C. J. Warbis who had recently died.

To notify the Mayor of any items that appear later in the agenda in which you may have an interest.

Councillor J. Robinson, JP., indicated that he had a personal interest in Item 5 on the agenda relating to Local Government Review Protection of Historic Traditions and Ceremonial Arrangements, as a Member of Sedgefield Town Council.  He would, however, not be leaving the meeting.

To confirm as a correct record the Minutes of the meeting held on 21^st November 2008

The Minutes of the meeting held on 21^st November, 2008 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Mayor.

The Mayor reported that since the meeting held on 26^th September, 2008 he had attended 55 functions and events including charity evenings, civic functions and carol services.  He had also attended a number of golden wedding and diamond wedding anniversary celebrations as well as a 102^nd birthday celebration.

The Mayor made reference to school visits which had taken place to the Council Offices and a visit of representatives from Africa on a group study exchange visit to the Borough as guests of Newton Aycliffe Rotary Club.  He had also attended the dedication ceremony for Aycliffe War Memorial at St. Clares Church, Newton Aycliffe.

Reference was also made to the official switch-on of Christmas lights at the Council Offices and “Santa in Sedgefield” which around 200 children had attended.

Report of Chief Executive.

N.B. In accordance with Section 81 of the Local Government Act 2000 and the Members’ Code of Conduct Councillor J. Robinson JP declared a personal interest in this item and remained in the meeting.

Consideration was given to a report of the Chief Executive (for copy see file of Minutes) updating Members on the decision as to how historic traditions were to be protected following the abolition of Sedgefield Borough Council and the transfer of ceremonial and civic property in advance of vesting day.

It was noted that the County Council had accepted local wishes previously expressed and had informed the Department of Communities and Local Government that Sedgefield Town Council would be a suitable candidate to take over the charter relating to Borough status granted to 24^th October, 1996.

The Council also retained certain civic regalia and seals formally held by Darlington Rural District Council and it was intended to transfer ownership and possession of those items to Darlington Borough Council prior to the abolition of the Council.

A formal agreement would be entered into with the recipient Councils to transfer ownership and possession of the items.  It was considered appropriate for ceremonial arrangements to be held to celebrate and mark the occasion of the transfer of the civic properties.

RESOLVED :                  That the Chief Executive be authorised to enter into appropriate agreements for the transfer of civic property.