‘It was a privilege’: Long-serving councillor stepping down

A councillor who has served the Aylesbury Vale for more than 20 years will not stand for re-election because he wants to look after his wife.
Derrick IshamDerrick Isham
Derrick Isham

Derrick Isham, 71, has been a district councillor since 1995 and a Buckingham Town Councillor since the 1980s.

He chaired the district council from 2011 to 2013 and said the decision to step down was not taken lightly.

But he wants to free up some time to be there for his wife Margaret, 72, who had a heart scare recently and to see more of their six-year-old grandson, James.

Mr Isham said: “She (Margaret) has been a great support to me and we support each other.

“It was a privilege to be chairman – one I never thought I’d get the chance to have.”

Mr Isham, who is a retired builder, said he enjoyed being on the planning committee as he could showcase his expertise but would like to see councillors get more training.

He will remain as a town councillor in Buckingham and is hoping to be reelected as a councillor for the Gawcott and Lenborough ward.

Mr Isham thinks it is ‘always a good time’ to serve your community and believes it is more about personality than politics.

He said: “Knowing your area is essential and you must do your research. But when you open your mouth, the whole world knows what you’re thinking.

“So be polite and friendly because politics doesn’t matter. It’s about personalities.”