Mayoress June Crowhurst has sent heartfelt thanks out to the many well-wishers who have been in touch since she underwent major heart surgery.
The town’s first lady admits her recovery at home away from the spotlight has ‘not been easy’ but is seeing an improvement every day Cllr Crowhurst has stepped aside from her normally punishing duties as companion to her close friend Cllr Elliott, the mayor, so she could undertake and recuperate from the surgical process.
Cllr Elliott said that his companion is ‘champing at the bit’ to get back to her ceremonial duties in the borough and beyond.
In a message to the Times, she told well-wishers and friends: “Can I through you thank your readers very much for their good wishes after my major surgery.
“I won’t pretend it has been easy but every day sees an improvement and I am a lot stronger now. Hopefully, it will not be too long before I am back to carrying out my duties as mayoress.”
The Pembury parish councillor and the mayor have been a popular double act since they swept into the prestigious civic roles in May.
But in recent weeks, Cllr Crowhurst has been absent from the Conservative Southborough north member’s side, notably on Remembrance Sunday.
Cllr Elliott said: “June is at home and recovering well. She’s champing at the bit to get back on the circuit.
“She has been really touched by everyone’s concern and good wishes and looks forward to seeing everyone again very soon.”
He has been forced to undertake appointments on his own, such as the charity quiz at Salomons for his elected charity ellenor, which looks after sick children.
When the pair were announced as the mayor and mayoress for 2015-16, Cllr Crowhurst was described as ‘his best friend on the council’ on the authority’s website.
The pair are the chosen representatives to attend royal and state visits, civic ceremonies and functions as well ribbon-cutting events, fetes and dinner dances in a demanding seven days a week schedule.
