The Discovery of Teesdale - Michael D. C. Rudd
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MP hits out at 'old boys' network'
Jun 24, 2008
AN MP has criticised the appointment of a Durham High Sheriff who bought a Teesdale tourist attraction “in order to close it because of the noise”.
MP Helen Goodman called for an end of “the old boys’ network” and wants the Government to review how High Sheriffs are appointed.
Paul Townley, who lives at nearby Thorpe Hall, bought Whorlton Lido in 2005.
The tourist attraction was closed later that year and it was claimed Mr Townley was sick of noise from day-trippers at the site.
Mr Townley was made High Sheriff of Durham in April – an unpaid and largely representational role.
Mrs Goodman said: “I am not happy that a person who uses their personal wealth in this wealth in this way is now in position of trust, representing the county.”
“It does raise the issue of how these appointments are made – the old boys’ network or whatever. The criteria and processes should be made public.”
The Whorlton Lido was a popular picnic and play area on the banks of the River Tees, with swimming in river pools above waterfalls.
Paul Townley, who is the boss of Townley Communications, bought the site, which was closed to the public after 100 years in 2005.
The parish council had complained about litter, yobs and noise from the site.
Mr Townley was made High Sheriff of Durham in April.
In a letter to Jack Straw, the Secretary for State for Justice, Mrs Goodman last week said: “The current procedure lacks transparency and accountability, and consequently fails to engender public support for the incumbent or the position itself.
“Paul Townley, who has only lived in the county for six years, has received considerable coverage in the local media for his decision to purchase Whorlton Lido in order to close it to visitors because he objected to the noise people made.”
Mrs Goodman said the site’s closure had denied the facility to local families.
She added that Mr Townley “claims to be interested in young people and improving their behaviour, when all he has demonstrated is an interest in excluding them from the public space”.
Mr Townley said: "I do not believe that the length of time someone has lived in a community should be a bar to public service and Ms Goodman is a good example herself of how a recent arrival to the area can be an effective representative of the interests of the local community.
"I continue to work with and support to the fullest in my capacity as high sheriff, youth charities and organisations that offer an alternative to gang mentality, binge drinking, violence and anti-social behaviour.
High Sheriffs attend royal visits the county, proclaim the accession of a new sovereign and usually act as the returning officers for Parliamentary elections. They also execute High Court writs.