Lynne Featherstone

One of the Lib Dem council group's newest and youngest members has been appointed to the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority. Cllr Ed Butcher (Stroud Green ward) joins the crucial 17-member body responsible for the running of London Fire Brigade.

Cllr Butcher, who only recently stormed to victory with Laura Edge and Richard Wilson in Stroud Green in the May local elections, has previously worked for the Fire Authority as a human resources officer. His appointment follows a successful election in which he was chosen by the votes of Lib Dem councillors across the whole of Greater London.

Cllr Ed Butcher comments:

"I am thrilled, not only to have the opportunity to represent Stroud Green but now also the millions of Londoners who rely on the Fire Brigade in an emergency.

"I very much hope to contribute to how the Fire Authority adapts to the ever-changing needs of London's richly diverse population and ensure that it is as prepared as it possibly can be to respond to any major incident.

"I'm also keen to make sure that the Brigade provides a world class fire and rescue service in the most environmentally friendly way possible. It's a tall order, but I'm looking forward to the challenge ahead."

Lib Dem council group Leader Cllr Neil Williams adds:

"The Fire Authority fulfils a vital role for Londoners, and I am extremely proud that Ed Butcher was chosen and that there will be a Haringey councillor on board. Ed is following in the footsteps of Lynne Featherstone, who also served on this body, and we wish him well. He deserves hearty congratulations."