VOTES were cast for the chair and vice-chair positions at the Launceston Community Network Panel meeting.

Cornwall Council’s community link officer Chris Sims led the voting for chairman after thanking Cornwall Councillor for Stoke Climsland (Ind) Neil Burden for his time as chairman over the last 12 months.

Cllr Burden stood again for the position against Cornwall Councillor for Launceston Central (Lib Dem) Gemma Massey.

Cornwall, town and parish councillors in attendance were given one vote each. There were, supposedly 11 eligible voters in attendance with the vote coming to six votes each.

Launceston town councillor Paul O’Brien said jovially: “It’s ok Chris, it takes a very special skill to hold these elections.”

The vote was held again with Dawn Rogers from South Petherwin Parish Council suggesting voting members stand when casting their vote. The meeting agreed.

A second count revealed there were 12 eligible voting members and the votes were cast in favour of Cllr Burden, seven to five.

Upon assuming the chair once again Cllr Burden jested: “Thank you Chris for organising this so well.”

Votes were then taken for the vice-chair. Town councillor Margaret Young and St Stephens By Launceston Parish Council chairperson Joan Heaton stood. The votes were ten to two in favour of Cllr Young.