Bideford bids adieu to longstanding town clerk Heather Blackburn

A dedicated servant to Bideford has stepped down from her role as town clerk after a career spanning more than 20 years. Heather Blackburn stood down following the local elections earlier this month with a new era under Paul Swan beginning.

Reflecting on her time as Bideford’s clerk, Heather expressed her gratitude for the privilege of serving the town’s council. She remarked: “I’ve been the Bideford clerk for almost 12 years. I was the deputy town clerk for ten years before that, so I have been involved in Bideford Town Council for a long time, and I know I don’t look old enough.”

Heather fondly acknowledged the unwavering support she received from the council’s members and staff throughout her tenure, emphasising their numerous accomplishments together.

Among the highlights of Blackburn’s tenure was the revitalisation of the Port Memorial Gardens, various initiatives within the allotments, and the adornment of the town with beautiful hanging baskets.

She attributed one of the major highlights to the employment of the maintenance team, whose dedication and hard work have left an indelible mark on the town over the past five years. “What is great about our maintenance team is they’re not being paid to do just that job; they take real pride in it and Bideford,” Heather said.

While Bideford Town Council may not possess an extensive array of assets, Blackburn highlighted their ability to enhance what the district and county councils may need more resources to accomplish. The maintenance team, various community organisations, and volunteers have played a vital role in uplifting the town through their selfless contributions.

Heather added: “Before I became the town clerk, I didn’t realise what great community groups there are and how much work goes on within them. There are so many different organisations which give their skills for free.

“We’ve got the grant process where we give them a little bit of money to keep going, but that is compounded tenfold because all the people in the organisations are volunteers, and we’re enabling them to do good for the great of the town.”

Reflecting on the changes she witnessed during her years of involvement, Heather marvelled at the council’s increasing engagement and proactive approach. From merely corresponding with other organisations in the early days, the council now proactively undertakes numerous projects independently.

She attributed this shift to the council’s strong connection with the community, as people have come to trust and seek the council’s assistance in various matters. “We’re very involved with the community as well; lots of people in the community know where to come if they want an answer on something or they want to help,” she said.

In offering advice to her successor, Paul Swan, Heather emphasised the importance of viewing the role as a collaborative effort with the council members. She encouraged Swan to work as a unified team, supporting one another to achieve results.

As Bideford bids adieu to Heather, she has set her sights on a well-deserved period of leisure. With a couple of furry companions by her side, she plans to spend ample time walking her dogs. Additionally, she intends to nurture her allotment, indulging in the pleasures of gardening. The allure of adventures beckons as well, with planned trips to Spain in her trusty campervan.

She assured the community that she would not completely sever her ties with Bideford. She expressed her intention to occasionally visit and check in on everyone, ensuring the bonds she forged during her tenure remain strong.

Meanwhile, the newly appointed clerk, Paul Swan eagerly anticipates the challenges and opportunities. Acknowledging the remarkable work accomplished by Heather and her team, he aims to build upon their accomplishments and continue the transformation of Bideford Town Council. Paul’s background in finance, primarily in large manufacturing organisations, positions him well to manage the financial aspects integral to the clerk’s role.

“I’ll be taking further examinations within the next twelve months to give me the council administration qualifications, and I’m looking forward to it.,” he said.