I’m sure you will have seen that the Local Government Association political balance has now been confirmed.

Following the local government elections we have to go through a process of determining which party holds the majority and in turn, chairmanship of the organisation.

Under normal circumstances this wouldn’t have taken as long as it did however, as the numbers were so close, group leaders had to work together to reach an agreement, a conversation from which I excluded myself. An agreement was reached and the Conservative Group will nominate a chairman at our annual conference in July.

Talking of which, while our conference is the highlight of my year, a time where I will get to see many of my colleagues and celebrate the local government’s achievements, I know tmany of you are looking forward to The MJ Local Government Achievement Awards.

These awards are a great thing for councils and provide an opportunity for all of us to celebrate the very best in local government.

I would like to wish the finalists all the best and know that regardless of the outcome you have all made an enormous contribution to your communities. I look forward to seeing you there.

Lord Porter of Spalding is Local Government Association chairman