COUNCILLOR CHESTER LONG

That this House notes with sadness the resignation of Councillor Chester Long as Leader of Exeter City council after 16 years in the post and after 32 years' service on the council; acknowledges the enormous contribution he has made to Exeter and wider public life; notes that under his stewardship Exeter became a model Labour council, keeping the council tax low while expanding services; and wishes him and his wife, Anita, well in what is hoped will be only a semi-retirement.