GARNANT councillor, Kevin Madge, has been named as the Vice-Chair of Carmarthenshire County Council.

The honour comes in Cllr Madge’s 40th year on the council, and he is the longest serving member on the county council.

He was confirmed as Vice-Chair at a full council meeting last Wednesday, April 18, and thanked everyone for their support.

Mr Madge said: “It is my 40th year as a county councillor now, and I would like to thank the Labour group and the rest of the councillors, of all colours, for backing the suggestion to make me Vice-Chair and give me this honour.

“I would also like to thank my wife and my family for the support I have had, and everyone in the Garnant ward for electing me for 39 years.

“I appreciated all the support I have had.

“They put their confidence in me and I am so grateful for that.

“Without their support I would not be where I am today.

“May 24 will make my 40th year in office, and I am delighted I can mark it with this honour.”

Nominating Cllr Madge, Cllrs Colin Evans and Mair Stephens said he had a welcoming smile and humourous attitude which are vital.

Cllr Evans added: "It is my great pleasure to nominate Kevin Madge for the role of Vice-Chair.

"When he was elected in 1979 to Cwmamman Town Council he was the youngest member ever appointed to that position. I understand he was six-and-a-half-years-old.

"It is fitting that as he approaches the twilight of his political career, he is appointed to the position of Vice-Chair, as both a well deserved and long overdue tribute to his dedication to public service for the last 40 years."