WYRE Forest’s longest serving district councillor has been nominated for a national award.
Coun Fran Oborski, who has served on Wyre Forest District Council for 51 consecutive years, is in the running to win the ‘Lifetime Legend’ accolade at the 2025 Councillor Awards.
The category is open to councillors who have served their communities for more than 15 years, helping to improve the lives of residents.
The awards are organised by the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) and CCLA and aim to recognise and honour the hard work and dedication of councillors.
Over the years Coun Fran Oborski has taken on many roles on the council.
During her 40th year on Wyre Forest District Council (2013 to 2014) she was chair.
She has also been deputy leader and is currently vice chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
Coun Oborski was a member of Worcestershire County Council for many years and was also re-elected to Kidderminster Town Council in 2024.
In 2015, Coun Oborski was made MBE for ‘Public and political service’ in Kidderminster and Wyre Forest.
During her time on Wyre Forest District Council, Coun Oborski has seen five chief executives and 19 different leaders of the council.
In recent years, Coun Oborski has shown remarkable resilience.
Following the amputation of her left leg in October 2024, she continued to fulfill her council duties with unwavering commitment – even attending a meeting virtually from her hospital bed.
Chairman of Wyre Forest District Council, Coun Paul Harrison said: “It is fantastic that Coun Oborski has been nominated for a national award which recognises her outstanding contribution and dedication to local government and our communities.
“Fran is very well respected by all members of the council and I am sure they will join me in congratulating her on this nomination.”
Coun Oborski said: “It is an honour to be nominated for the Lifetime Legend award.
“It’s been a great privilege to represent my ward for 51 years and I continue to enjoy my time as a councillor, championing the voices of our residents and the improvements they want to see.”
The winners of the 2025 Councillor Awards will be announced at a ceremony on November 18.
