THE leader of Cornwall Council has been shortlisted in an annual awards ceremony that looks to acknowledge councillors from across the country. 

Cllr Linda Taylor of Cornwall Council has been shortlisted for the 2023 LGIU and CCLA annual Cllr Awards for Leader of the Year, in a selection that represents “some of the most dedicated elected representatives in England and Wales.”

Competition was extremely tight with more than 300 nominations received across five categories that celebrate the wide-ranging work of councillors. The categories up for grabs this year include Community Champion, Leader of the Year, Young Councillor of the Year, Resilience Champion and Lifetime Legend 

Cllr Taylor was shortlisted for Leader of the Year for her leadership of the council which has been described as 'inspiring'. From ensuring that care leavers are better supported to helping to bring new industries and employment opportunities to the communities, her passion for improving the lives and livelihoods of everyone in Cornwall shone through in the nominations.

The winners in England & Wales will be announced at the Guildhall in London at 7pm on 16 November 2023.

The Cllr Awards judging panel is made up of senior councillors and leading stakeholders from across the sector. These are the only national awards to celebrate and showcase the work of individual councillors. This year’s awards are made possible thanks to the generous support of founding partners CCLA.

Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive, LGIU said: "In the face of unprecedented domestic and global challenges over the last year, councillors nationwide have once again exhibited unwavering dedication to serving their constituents.

"The shortlist for the 2023 Cllr Awards represents some of the most devoted elected representatives in England and Wales. As councils continue to deliver essential services like social care and housing amid a cost of living crisis, these Awards are a hugely important way to champion what councillors do locally. Their work, all too often, goes unrecognised and we take great pride in featuring their stories in this year's shortlist.

"Congratulations to all the councillors nominated and shortlisted and I look forward to announcing the winners in November."