HE'S been mayor twice, council leader, and represented the southern parishes for 22 years. 

But ahead of the next Winchester City Council elections, Frank Pearson has decided to retire.

Mr Pearson was first elected in 2002, and has not lost his seat since. The wards at that time were called Swanmore and Newtown which had two councillors. 

The whole area now has three councilors and was renamed Central Meon Valley.

Mr Pearson said: “I'm retiring for two reasons. One is that I'm 83 now and I'm no longer able to put up with the nonsense going on. The other is that I have had a string of health issues since 2019 including my hearing, eyes and hips.”

Hampshire Chronicle: Frank Pearson in 2012

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Mr Pearson held cabinet posts for much of his service, specialising in the environment, health and safety. He was also vocal on the planning committee for several years. 

He held the post of leader for a short time, was a member of Swanmore Parish Council for 10 years and served as a governor at Swanmore Secondary School (now the college).

He told the Chronicle he was proud to have been elected as mayor twice, in 2012 and 2018. 

“I'm proud to have been a voice for the southern parishes. I'm also proud of the work I did as the environmental portfolio holder. It was a large portfolio, later split between three people. I'm incredibly proud to have been made mayor twice. It's the biggest honour for a councillor as it's a recognition of the work I've done,” he said. 

Hampshire Chronicle: Frank Pearson in 2018

Mr Pearson added: “I regret that a change in the constitution meant that backbenchers had a smaller say in full council. The backbenchers used to have a voice. The cabinet makes all of the decisions now. 

“The decision making is being done by fewer and fewer people which is not good for democracy.”

The former teacher said he had no specific plans for his retirement, but his priority is getting back to full health. He said: “My health is improving. I'm sure I'll find something to do. My wife Anne has been very supportive.

“Ahead of the next election, I wish everyone good luck and I would also say don't forget the southern parishes. Everything is very focussed on Winchester itself at the moment. There should be an elected town council for Winchester, instead of the town forum which just has district councillors. I don't think that's good for democracy.”

In a message to Central Meon Valley residents, he said: “It has been my privilege and pleasure to serve you over long years and to support and help those who requested it. Thank you for the continuing confidence you have shown in me. Now it is on to pastures new.”