MAYOR AFTER HIS OWN ART

ONE of the biggest surprises for councillors arriving at the HOTA gala was seeing all their names on the official plaque for the new art gallery.

This is a council where there are deep disagreements on cruise ship terminals, cableways or filling in Black Swan Lake – but arts seemingly enjoyed everyone on board, at most times.

A council insider said: “I think the councillors were only expecting it would have the Mayor’s (Tom Tate) name. All those people played a part. It was a nice gesture (by him).”