Wyre Forest District Council gets its youngest chairman The Kidderminster Standard
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Kidderminster councillor is Wyre Forest District Council's youngest chairman

Kidderminster Editorial 14th May, 2026 Updated: 15th May, 2026

WYRE Forest District Council had its youngest ever chairman sworn in this week during the annual ‘changing of the chain’, writes Stan Mills.

Lifelong Kidderminster resident Coun George Connolly, who is 28 years old a darts fanatic and county-level player, has taken over from outgoing chairman, Coun Paul Harrison.

Coun Connolly represents the Franche and Habberley North ward on the district council and has served residents there for the past three years.

He is well-known locally in his home town where he became the youngest Mayor of Kidderminster at the age of just 27.

In his new role, Coun Connolly will represent the authority at events across the district, including community celebrations and charity occasions.

Coun Connolly will also chair council meetings and work to raise cash for his chosen charity, the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).




He said he was extremely honoured to have been elected chairman of Wyre Forest District Council.

“It is a real privilege to represent both the council and the communities we serve, locally and beyond.


“Becoming the youngest chairman, following my time as the youngest Mayor of Kidderminster, has been a bit of a whirlwind.

“It shows age does not have to be a barrier to making a positive difference.

“During my time as Mayor, I saw first-hand how much work goes into supporting our local communities.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing even more of that across the district in the year ahead.”

Coun Connolly became chairman on Wednesday and turns 29 tomorrow (Friday, May 15).

Anyone wanting to invite the chairman to attend events across the district should email: [email protected] to get in touch.

Coun Kenneth Henderson, who represents Areley Kings and Riverside, will serve as Vice Chairman for the municipal year