Historic appointment of new provost

Jean Jones made history as she was elected the first female provost in North Lanarkshire’s history.

She was elected as the authority’s “first citizen” and civic head – whose responsibilities include chairing council meetings – by 41 votes to 33, ahead of SNP nominee, Wishaw councillor Jim Hume.

P re v i o u s l y Nor th Lanarkshire’s depute provost, she said: “I’d like to thank everybody who voted for me for putting their trust in me; I’m honoured, and very proud to be the area’s first female provost.

“I’ll represent the people of North Lanarkshire to the very best of my ability and I look forward to the many events I’ll be involved with during this council term.”

Provost Jones added of her predecessor: “I’d like to pay tribute to Jim Robertson who carried out his duties very diligently, they’re big shoes to fill.

“He chaired the chamber with a firm hand and made sure everyone had a fair chance to speak and I hope to continue the same way.”

New Coatbridge South councillor Tom Castles is the new depute provost, winning the vote ahead of Airdrie SNP member Sophia Coyle.

Three local councillors will be conveners – Glenboig’s Michael McPake will chair the infrastructure committee, Tommy Morgan of Airdrie North leads transformation and Bill Shields of Coatbridge North the local review body.

Vice- convenerships go to Alex McVey (planning), Ian McNeill (organisational business), Kevin Docherty ( licensing) and Willie Doolan (regulatory), while Alan Beveridge and Mary Gourlay will chair the Airdrie and Coatbridge local area partnerships.

First lady Jean Jones