Councillors in Wem have turned down the opportunity to take on a town crier after voting against a proposal brought forward by town mayor, Councillor Edward Towers.

Cllr Towers first mooted the idea in July’s full town council meeting and drew up two-sided proposal to persuade councillors as to why it would benefit the town.

Cllr Towers believed the idea had merit, having seen it in other towns and felt it would have improved relations with other north Shropshire towns, if they shared the town crier.

However, the idea received a lukewarm response from his fellow councillors, with many choosing to vote against the proposal.

Meanwhile, it was also agreed that councillors would have more thinking time regarding the provision of ‘Past Mayor Badges’, designed to recognise those who have acted as the head of the council in Wem.

Cllr Towers was supportive of the idea and showed his colleagues a number of examples; however, Cllr Chris Mellings stated he felt residents would deem it as not an appropriate use of public money.

However, the idea will be discussed again at a later date.

In the public forum, Cadi Price – representing Wem Swimming Pool – confirmed the plan to raise funds through a community share offer and was asked by Cllr Mandy Meakin if there was consideration to reduce the price of a minimum share from £50 to £25.

But Ms Price stated that anyone who felt they couldn’t afford to buy a share could still donate through collections.

There were a number of planning applications up for consideration as councillors supported an application for a single-storey application for 6 Marlcroft and the building of six dwellings on land to the east of New Street.

However, councillors did comment that these dwellings should go to people with a local connection or those who need care.

Other items discussed were finding locations for a ‘Men in Sheds’ group in the town, plus it was decided that Wem swimming pool would stay out of Wem Sports and Social Association, as part of newly-created charity.

For a full breakdown of minutes, head to www.wem.gov.uk