A HARD-WORKING councillor from Budleigh Salterton has scooped a prestigious award in recognition of his work managing a housing and employment venture.

As reported in last week’s Journal, Ray Franklin, of Dalditch Lane, was recently shortlisted to receive an award at the Local Government Information Unit Achievement ceremony.

Cllr Franklin, an East Devon District Council ward member for Budleigh Salterton, found out he had landed the Partnership Achievement Award when he attended the ceremony at London’s Westminster Hall this week.

The prize was for his involvement in the Growth Point Venture, which involves a raft of schemes aimed at providing housing and employment on the borders of Exeter and East Devon.

“I was elated with the award. I’m still in a bit of shock to be honest,” Cllr Franklin said.

“The award is basically what it says on the tin – a partnership. My partners are East Devon District Council, Devon County Council and Exeter City Council.

“It is collaborative work.

“I would like to give a big thank you to Rachel Pocock, senior solicitor at East Devon District Council and Karime Hassan, my wife, Judith, and my daughter, Stella, for all their support over the years.”

The Growth Point team has won many millions of pounds in Government support for the area under the stewardship of Councillor Franklin who has been a ward member for Budleigh Salterton since 1991.

He was chairman of the joint partnership of local councils, public bodies and private sector partners until January, when he handed the revolving chair to Councillor Pete Edwards, Leader of Exeter City Council.

A Ward Member for Budleigh Salterton and former Deputy Leader of EDDC, Ray Franklin is currently the council’s Portfolio Holder for Strategic Planning and Regeneration.