COUNCILLORS met for the final full council meeting of Allerdale Borough Council last week - and bid their last farewell to the authority.

The meeting on Wednesday, March 1 at the Hundith Hill Hotel, Cockermouth marked the last full council meeting before the transition into the Cumberland Council on April 1.

Since its creation in 1974, Allerdale has had 48 mayors, including three mayors who have had dual terms and one who has been the mayor twice - but years apart.

The mayor of Allerdale, Cllr Allan Daniels said: “It has been a great honour to be mayor of Allerdale, particularly the last mayor before we become Cumberland in a month’s time.

“In my time as mayor, and as an Allerdale Borough Councillor, I have been extremely lucky to attend countless events across the Borough, and work on several committees, endeavouring to improve the lives of residents across Allerdale.

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“I would like to say a huge thank you to all the council officers and councillors who throughout my time as councillor, have been most helpful and extremely professional.

“Sadly, of course, it is the end of Allerdale itself, as we become part of the new authority of Cumberland Council on April 1 2023.

“But the beginning of a new council is a fantastic and exciting opportunity to take Allerdale Borough Council’s outstanding ethos, service and respect for our community forward to benefit the residents of Cumberland.”

Leader of Allerdale Borough Council, Cllr Mike Johnson said: “Today marks a hugely significant day in the history of our council.

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“After more than 48 years, this is the last time all of us as councillors will sit together to debate and make decisions on our services.

“Over that time the dedication that councillors and officers have shown to working for the good of the people of Allerdale has not changed. And we have achieved some great things.

“I know that in 1974 our predecessors faced similar challenges that the shadow councillors currently face at Cumberland when bringing then councils together to form Allerdale.

"But in a relatively short space of time, come together they did, and whilst the local rivalries between towns and areas remained, we have always fought for what’s best for our area.

“I’m confident that we leave Allerdale in the best position possible to guarantee future success for Cumberland.

“So tonight is about celebrating our successes and honouring the people who have made it happen.

“That’s everyone here and all those who have sat in your place over the years. It’s all the officers who have dedicated their time and energy for our residents, and the partners we have worked with.

“But it’s also about thanking the people of Allerdale, who have supported us along the way.”

The agenda also included some other items including a governance update report, an update from the council’s overview and scrutiny committee, and the last update on the portfolio holders report. The full agenda can be found at allerdale.gov.uk.