PEMBROKESHIRE County Council has elected its first ever vice chairman from the opposition groups, in a move described as ‘one small step for man and one giant leap for democracy.’

Non-affiliated member Councillor Tony Brinsden beat Cllrs Lyn Jenkins, Pearl Llewellyn and Ken Rowlands in the ballot at last Friday’s annual general meeting of the County Council.

The Council Chamber rose to its feet as Cllr Brinsden made his way to the Vice Chairman’s seat to be invested by the new Chairman, Cllr Wynne Evans.

Cllr Brinsden joined Carmarthenshire and Cardiganshire Police in 1964, and before his retirement rose to the rank of Chief Inspector, commanding the Dyfed-Powys drugs squad.

On leaving the police force and wishing to continue his contribution to public service, Cllr Brinsden was elected as the county councillor for Amroth in 2004.

He also served on the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority and for two years was its chairman.

Addressing members, Cllr Brinsden said: “Thank you all very much for voting for me, especially my friends on the other side.

“I think I may steal some of the words from the American astronaut Neil Armstrong in saying this is one small step for man and one giant leap for democracy within Pembrokeshire.

“I’m positive in saying that I will be the first Vice Chairman of this authority to come from the opposition side and I will do my utmost to be a good Vice Chairman.”

Cllr Brinsden’s nomination was put forward by Cllr David Lloyd, who said: “It was an unexpected reward, for him, on becoming a county councillor to have the opportunity of meeting people of such distinction, integrity and charm.”

The nomination was seconded by Cllr Michael Williams, who said: “I had the great privilege of being a member of the National Park Authority when Cllr Brinsden was chairman. It was a very difficult time and he saw the Park through that terrible period with great humility and courage.”

Cllr Williams added: “I think we’re seeing a change in this authority, which is certainly recognised and appreciated by the staff. What I hope we can do today is show that we as members are changing as well.

“Let’s get away from what we’ve always done in the past and let’s get someone who isn’t a member of any political group to lead this authority in the future. I think that would be a major sign for the public that we are trying to change.”