A town councillor has resigned his position, stating that his wife’s happiness took precedence, as his role would have prevented her participation in the annual flower show.
Tony Hewitt, a resident of Ferryhill, County Durham, for seven years alongside his wife Rita, explained their shared enthusiasm for entering the Ferryhill in Bloom competition each year.
Mr. Hewitt, who was appointed to Ferryhill Town Council on May 1st representing Reform UK, cited a conflict of interest due to his position on the council, which judges the contest. He resigned when it became apparent that his involvement would disqualify his wife, who he noted had “worked hard” throughout the year, from competing.
Acknowledging that some individuals had questioned his decision, Mr. Hewitt defended his choice by emphasizing: “She loves her garden.”
The couple achieved first place in the previous year’s competition for their front garden and secured second place for their back garden.
Mr. Hewitt clarified, “I don’t have a lot to do with the garden at all, it is all my wife’s doing.”
“She grows plants from seed and brings them on in the greenhouse – it is her baby,” the 65-year-old added.
He explained that he initially sought a position on the town council to “do something for the community” and already serves as chairman of the residents’ association.
“There weren’t enough applicants to hold an election, I was just appointed,” he stated.
“There are 17 councillor places for Ferryhill Town Council and at the moment there are only seven councillors.”
Mr. Hewitt served for only one month and attended a single meeting before learning of the conflict regarding his wife’s, 77, eligibility. He officially resigned on June 26th.
“When I found out that this year she wouldn’t get to put herself forward after all her hard work I thought I am not really losing anything by giving it up without even getting my feet under the table.”
Mr. Hewitt expressed his understanding of the situation, stating that the participation of a “councillor or a councillor’s wife winning the competition then people could look at that and start wondering what is going on” could raise concerns.
Ferryhill Town Council confirmed that staff, elected members, and their spouses are ineligible to enter competitions it organizes, adding “the appearance of any kind of favouritism could make members of the public lose confidence” in the council.
The results of Ferryhill in Bloom 2025 are scheduled to be announced in September.
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