THANKS have been paid to the chairperson of Tranent and Elphinstone Community Council (TECC) for his service as he steps down following a decade of involvement.

Mike Falconer held his final meeting as chairperson at the group's most recent monthly meeting, which took place in Elphinstone Community Centre on September 17.

Mr Falconer, who has been TECC chair since October 2021, is a retired English teacher and now regularly presents on Tranent-based radio station Radio Saltire.

Community councillor Robert McNeill paid tribute to Mr Falconer’s contributions at the conclusion of the meeting.

He said: “You are a doer. You’ve proved that in some of the projects that you’ve been involved in.

“I’ve worked under a few chairs in the past and certainly the work that you’ve done in your time as chair has been extraordinary.

“During Covid especially, I think we all realised that you played a huge part in the emergency situation.

“If it hadn’t been for your personality, your drive, a lot of things would never have been done.

“I speak not just on behalf of the community council but the elected members as well for your efforts.

“There always comes a time in life where you move on and I think, speaking to you recently, I’ve heard from that tone in your voice, it's time for you to move on.”

Mr McNeill concluded by wishing Mr Falconer and his family well and saying a final thanks on behalf of the community council.

Mr Falconer, who has involved with the community council for the past 10 years, will officially step down from the role of chair at TECC’s annual general meeting, which takes place on Tuesday, October 15.

The meeting takes place from 7pm to 8pm at Tranent Day Care Centre and members of the public are invited to attend.