A county councillor scooped a top national honour this week for leading digital improvement at the council.

Bucks County Council’s resources cabinet member, John Chilver, won the prestigious technology and digital award at the Councillor Achievement Awards in London on Tuesday.

Cllr Chilver was chosen by a panel of judges made up of local government experts and councillors for leading projects that have improved digital infrastructure and education.

His achievements include promoting paperless meetings, which has saved the council £17,000 in printing and paper costs, as well as improving the way residents access services online.

This has included the ‘find my child a school place’ project and the new digital waste permit scheme. 

Organised by the local democracy think tank the LGiU, the awards are the only national celebration of councillors’ work from across the country.

Cllr Chilver said: “I’m delighted to have been presented with the award, which is recognition of our progress with digital transformation.

“All credit must go to our technology and digital teams for the fantastic and innovative work they have done.”

Jonathan Carr-West, chief executive of the LGiU, said: “I would like to extend my most sincere congratulations to Cllr Chilver and thank him for his commitment to local government.

“We look forward to hearing more about his continued accomplishments in future.

"Year after year we take the time to honour the dedicated work of councillors from across the country because so often it goes unrecognised.

“Despite ever tightening budgets, councils continue to ensure that essential services are delivered on the ground, day after day.

“They play a crucial role in keeping our communities connected, and safe. Celebrating their achievements is more important than ever.”