The Chairman of Cannock Chase District Council has passed on his condolences to the family of Newcastle-under-Lyme Mayor, Councillor Barry Panter, following the news of his sudden death.

Councillor Steve Thornley, said: “It is with great sadness that we heard the terrible news of Barry’s death. All our thoughts are with his wife, Beatrice, his family and loved ones at this very difficult time.”

“I met Barry on several occasions and he was always so enthusiastic about Newcastle and his role as Mayor.” 

Cannock Chase Council have purchased several properties in Cannock Town Centre, as part of the £20 million Government funding received to transform Cannock Town Centre.

The properties purchased, which will form part of phase two of the town centre redevelopment include the Forum Shopping Centre, retail properties along Market Hall Street and Church Street, including the former Barclays Bank and Boots.

Lifesaving bleed kits have been installed in six locations across the district thanks to funding from the Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime.

The new cabinets, which are stocked with essential bleed control equipment, can now be found at Cannock, Pye Green, Hednesford and Norton Canes, and supplement existing bleed control provision across the district.