New Chairman confirmed at Annual Council

Cllr James received the chain of office from outgoing Chairman Cllr Peter Elliott at the Annual Council meeting on Monday 19 May 2025.

The Chairman, whose role is ceremonial, represents the council at civic functions and at local events around the district.

Cllr James represents the Little Bowden ward in Market Harborough.

He said: “I am an experienced councilor having first being elected for Harborough district in 2019. Prior to that, I started my business life as a power generation engineer followed by a long career in local politics across the UK and including Harborough.

“I have advised governments too working with the European Union in Poland and Lithuania and the most interesting of all, the People’s Republic of China.

“I work in the town of Market Harborough engaged in residential property management, which brings me into contact with many local people and gives me a good understanding of people’s concerns.

“I enjoy having some influence on how our district evolves. I like to make a difference, no matter how small, and to help residents with issues that affect their lives apart from the bigger issues we face.

“Working with local businesses and community organisations is important too when developing future strategies across the district.

“I am looking forward to representing our council and our district.”

The new Chairman’s chosen charity for the year will be Smile Train.

The Vice Chairman will be Cllr Buddy Anderson, ward councillor for the Great Bowden and Arden ward in Market Harborough.

Outgoing Chairman Cllr Peter Elliott, who represents the Thurnby and Houghton ward thanked those who had supported him during his year in office.

During his time in office, Cllr Elliott fundraised for his chosen charity Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People raising a total of £1000.67.