Taunton Town Council leader named Somerset Young Councillor of the Year
Taunton Town Council wins major awards for service to the community
Tom Deakin, the leader of Taunton Town Council and Somerset Councillor for North Taunton, has been recognised as Somerset Young Councillor of the Year by the Somerset Association of Local Councils (SALC).
This honour was part of a successful night for Taunton, with the town council also winning the Council of the Year award.
In addition, the council's Clerk was named runner-up for Clerk of the Year, and the council itself came second for Somerset Nature & Climate Response of the Year.
At just 28, Deakin became Leader of Taunton Town Council when the new council was formed in 2023.
His efforts in advancing local services, encouraging community engagement, and contributing to the establishment of the new authority were acknowledged by the award.
Deakin has made tangible strides in improving services for residents, bringing the public toilet cleansing service back in-house and refurbishing public facilities.
Under his leadership, Taunton Town Council has developed teams to more effectively address local priorities, such as the Open Spaces and Maintenance Team.
He has also facilitated accessible communication, exemplified by the 250-person turnout at the council’s most recent Annual Town Meeting.
Deakin has been instrumental in initiatives such as the Community Review, Community Plan, Neighbourhood planning, and enhancing accessibility across Taunton’s play parks.
The accolade recognises young politicians under 30 in local government, with Deakin hoping it inspires more young people to engage in community affairs.
Deakin remarked on the awards night, acknowledging the efforts contributing to Taunton's recognition.