Dennis says Provost role is an honour

Strathmore councillor Dennis Melloy has been elected as Perth and Kinross’s new Provost, taking over from Liz Grant.

The new Provost, who grew up in Blairgowrie, said: “I am very conscious of the honour I have been given by being elected Provost and convener of Perth and Kinross Council.

“I can assure you that I take these positions very seriously and will endeavour to uphold the standards and traditions expected of me.

“I am delighted that Councillor Willie Wilson has been elected as depute provost and look forward to working closely with him as an important part of the civic team.

“I am also looking forward to working with all councillors during our five-year term of office.

“This has always been a good-natured and inclusive council and I would earnestly hope that this continues and that party politics and political point-scoring play no part in council business as we strive to do our best for the communities in which we serve.

“Since being elected my feet have hit the road running with meetings and events that I have attended.

“The lovely messages of congratulations and support I have received since my appointment have been overwhelming and extremely humbling.

“I am only a Blairgowrie lad living in Alyth and I am extremely fortunate to have the support of my wife Libby.

“She has been my rock and has always been by my side in everything I have done and achieved over the years.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank my predecessor, former Provost Liz Grant, for everything she has done in her term of office.”

Local Scottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser congratulated Dennis on his new role.

He said: “I am particularly delighted to see my good friend Dennis Melloy elected as Provost, the first Conservative to hold that office in two decades. It is a richly deserved honour.

“I am sure that he will carry out the duties of Provost with distinction and I wish him and Libby every success.”