Craven's leader is the region's best

From the archive, first published Tuesday 5th Dec 2006.

CARL Lis has won an award as the best councillor in the Yorkshire and Humberside region.

He won the Local Champion award, which recognises elected members who have made a difference to the lives of local people, at the Regional Local Government Awards held in Harrogate.

And Craven's success stories did not end there: Bruce Dinsmore, Craven District Council's sports development officer, also won the Employee of the Year award, which recognises the employee who has made an outstanding contribution to the work of their authority and community

Coun Lis was submitted because of his role in a number of initiatives for Craven. He was elected to Ingleton Parish Council 25 years ago and to Craven District Council in 1989 and has been one of that council's three appointees to the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority for 10 years. In his entry, submitted by the council, his leading role in major strategic initiatives for Craven and the Yorkshire Dales is contrasted to his participation in grassroots community life - including a regular role as the pantomime dame and bingo caller.

Bruce Dinsmore is the Sports Development Officer for Craven District Council.

He was nominated because of his support for 16 sports events in Craven attracting over 11,000 participants as well as raising over £300,000 for charity.

"Since Bruce took up his post four years ago he has worked tirelessly to ensure the full engagement of the whole community in sport and recreational activity," said a Craven District Council spokesman.