After more than two decades of dedicated service, Conservative Councillor Christine Lawrence has officially stepped down from her role representing the Dunster division in Somerset, triggering a by-election set to take place later this autumn.
Councillor Lawrence has been a prominent figure in local politics since the 1990s, beginning her public service with Minehead Town Council before moving on to West Somerset Council in 1999. In 2001, she was elected to Somerset County Council to represent the Dunster division, covering Minehead’s Alcombe area, Dunster village, Blue Anchor, Carhampton, and several communities south of Williton. She held this position continuously for 24 years, sharing representation with Liberal Democrat Councillor Marcus Kravis since May 2022, following the formation of the new Somerset Council.
In September 2023, Ms. Lawrence was granted a six-month leave of absence by Somerset Council’s chief executive, Duncan Sharkey, allowing her time away from public meetings while retaining her councillor status. This week, she formally announced her retirement, with Somerset Council leader Bill Revans acknowledging her many years of dedicated service at the council’s executive committee meeting in Taunton.
“We are saddened by Councillor Lawrence’s resignation but grateful for her outstanding contribution over the years,” said Bill Revans. “We wish her all the best in her retirement.”
Ms. Lawrence expressed her gratitude in a resignation letter dated September 3, thanking fellow councillors and council officers for their support and for the “wonderful opportunity” to serve the people of west Somerset.
Until the by-election appoints her successor, Councillor Marcus Kravis will manage all casework and inquiries for the Dunster division. The by-election’s date is expected to be announced after the funeral of Councillor Nick Cottle, the Liberal Democrat member for Glastonbury, who passed away in August. The council noted it is customary to wait until after funeral services before issuing a notice of vacancy, out of respect for the family.
Council chairman Mike Best also confirmed that colleagues will honor Ms. Lawrence’s service at the next full council meeting in Bridgwater on September 23.