A CUMNOCK man has managed to unite every political party as election fever grips the nation.

Council officer Bernie Gribben did this by being given an enthusiastic round of applause from every elected member at a full meeting of East Ayrshire Council after Provost Jim Todd had announced Mr Gribben’s retirement from being the first person many people encountered at their headquarters.

He has become a well-known face after 36 years of working in local government and, in recognition of his dedicated service, a special presentation was held in the council chambers to recognise his retirement where, amongst other gifts, he received a photobook containing snapshots from throughout his career.

During his time at East Ayrshire Council, Mr Gribben has been responsible for a range of duties including supervising the other officers, civic and ceremonial duties, committee meeting support, mail and courier services and caretaking duties at council headquarters.

Numerous reporters from the Cumnock Chronicle have been greeted by him, always with a smile and a warm welcome, before taking their place in the council chamber’s press seats — Mr Gribben taking up his customary position at the opposite end of the hall, keeping a watchful eye on proceedings.

Having started work in local government in 1979 when he joined Cumnock and Doon Valley District Council’s cleansing department, before being transferred eight years later to the chief executive’s department to take on the new post of council officer, and ever since, he has worked tirelessly for the council and gained a reputation for being affable, organised, dependable and willing to help anyone in any way he could.

Fiona Lees, EAC chief executive, said: “All of us at East Ayrshire Council are incredibly sorry to see Bernie go — he has been an excellent council officer and an absolute stalwart of our organisation. He has always ensured that visitors got a warm and friendly welcome and, at all times, ready and willing to offer a helping hand. Nothing was too much trouble and we wish him a long, happy, healthy and well-earned retirement.” COPS are investigating after a 15 foot trailer went missing in Cumnock.

The silver Brian James trailer with an East Ayrshire fleet number 69916 and serial number SJB999GBPED003766 attached to the rear of the trailer was stolen from the East Ayrshire Council yard in Ayr Road, Cumnock between 8.50am and 11.10am on Wednesday April 8.

The trailer also had the registration plate YT61 VMR. Please contact Police at Cumnock Police Office on 101 if you have any information.