A CREDITON Councillor recently attended a King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in recognition of his 20 years’ service to Crediton and Mid Devon District Council.

Cllr John Downes was invited to attend by Mid Devon District Council and was accompanied by his wife Christine.

John explained: It was a wonderful day, and I was honoured to represent Mid Devon and Crediton as their District and as a Town Councillor.

“Chris and I travelled by train to London.

“As I am a Chartered Engineer, we had lunch at the IET Institute in Savoy Place, which offers an unbroken view of the Thames.

“We then walked to Trafalgar Square, through St James’ Park, and arrived at Buckingham Place, entering through the front gate.

Cllr John Downes and his wife, Christine making their way in to a garden party at Buckingham Palace.
Cllr John Downes and his wife, Christine making their way in to a garden party at Buckingham Palace. (J Downes)

“The palace grounds are truly magnificent, yet not over stated.

“A huge tea marquee was set up, offering a tremendous array of sweet and savoury delights.

“The King and Queen made their arrival at 4pm and proceeded to interact with the crowd for approximately an hour.

“After indulging in a refreshing final tub of ice cream, we returned to Paddington and enjoyed an evening meal on the train back home.

“It was Chris’ birthday, so a gift that I will not be able to repeat and a day we will both remember.”

John added: “I was honoured to receive the invitation, which acknowledged my two decades of service to Mid Devon and Crediton as a Councillor.

“When I was first elected, 20 years ago, I was involved in the Tesco application, and this year I have been engaged with both McDonald’s and Lid stores. I hold strong environmental convictions and strive to ensure that developments are mindful of the exceptional surroundings we live in. This encompasses considerations such as sustainability, cladding, landscaping, and the materials employed.

“I am proud to have served on a number committees, including Environment, Planning, Scrutiny, Leisure, and my continued role as Chair of the Economy and Assets Policy Development Group. My unwavering commitment is to ensure that Crediton receives the utmost attention and support.

“Amongst my accomplishments are the establishment of the cycle path in Bell Parade, the construction of the path in Newcombe’s Meadow, and my support in securing funding for the Redlands Surgery.

“Additionally, I have played a important role in altering the design of the Tarka View estate from its initial New England-inspired housing with aluminium roofs to the approved brick and render style.

“I am dedicated to my role in Crediton, I am committed to focusing my time and energy to where I can make the most significant impact on the lives of our residents. I am humbled by their support over the past two decades and will continue to advocate and work for their interests as long as I hold my elected position.”

John is well-known in the county and further afield as a member of the hugely-popular “Beatles” cover band “The Beatnxs”.

The band has played at CredFest, Crediton Christmas Lights Switch-On and many other town occasions.