The last full meeting of Bury Council last night was the shortest I can remember for a long time – finishing around 8.30!

Perhaps because of the close proximity to elections no party had tabled any motions, so no debates. However there was plenty of scope for hurling political abuse and point scoring during questions to the Leader of the Council, (Bacup) Bob Bibby.

During questions stresses and anxieties were clearly evident. The stresses and anxieties that develop as an election dawns and politicians get closer to the day when they are stood on voters doorsteps seeking a mandate for 4 more years.

Some Conservatives chastised the Lib Dem group for laughing!!! Believe me if they were sat where we were, they would have been laughing too!

We established that there were 904 pot holes and uneven pavements reported in the past year, which if nothing else confirms what most of us already know – what a mess the roads and pavements are in.

Other than that answer most of the questions, including one from myself, were connected to the review of civic suites and the Tories lukewarm (at best) support for Radcliffe Civic Hall.

However the answers to questions from the Conservative Group were notable for their determination NOT to answer the question that had been put.

The highlight of the meeting was when the Mayor thanked David Hanson, head of Democratic Services for his 27 years service to Bury Council. Councillors spontaneously applauded following the announcement. He will be missed by all councillors, many of whom (including myself) have often relied on his support and advice over the years. I wish him a happy and lengthy retirement.

Next Full Council is in May – There will be new faces and perhaps some surprising absentees, and possibly even a new administration. It’s over to you!