THE Town Clerk of Penzance Council has won a prestigious national award in recognition of his dedication to the local community.

At the National Association of Local Councils (NALC) Star Council Awards held at the House of Lords on February 25, James Hardy was announced as Town Clerk of the Year 2024, beating finalists from Suffolk, Yorkshire, Buckinghamshire and Falmouth.

Town Clerks are Council’s senior officials known as the ‘Proper Officer’. Their main role is to advise the Council, ensure decisions are lawful and to implement those decisions. They also work closely with community partners and stakeholders on projects within the Parish.

Since joining Penzance Council two years ago, James Hardy has built a strong leadership team grounded in a public service ethos. His focus on improving access to public-facing services addresses the challenges posed by the increasing shift to online-only access, which often excludes vulnerable, digitally disadvantaged individuals.

James encourages staff to provide in-person and telephone support, rebuilding trust not just in the council but in local public services and democracy. His efforts include leading a project to re-establish a council presence in the historic Market House, supported by Town Deal funding, to make essential services accessible at the heart of the town. Under his guidance, Penzance Council is recognised as a beacon of public service.

Mayor of Penzance, Stephen Reynolds commented: “This is a hugely well-deserved award. As Mayor, I have seen at first hand the energy and enthusiasm James brings to serving the local community, and his unique ability to work with others to make where we live an even better place.

“It’s been a pleasure to work with him, and to share his positivity and can-do attitude. I’m delighted his achievements have been recognised nationally, but I’m also aware that his award is testimony to the commitment of everyone in the hard-working, public-spirited team of people at Penzance Council.”

James’s extensive experience in partnership-building has been instrumental in enhancing relationships with community organisations and unitary authority. He has successfully negotiated devolution arrangements, secured a significant local asset and enhanced the management of devolved open spaces.

His work includes securing strategic agreements with partners aligned with council objectives, ensuring continued service to the community despite financial challenges. James's collaboration extends to support major community events like the Golowan Festival and Jubilee Pool, strengthening these cultural staples.

His empathy, strong community connections, and remarkable memory make him a trusted and valued partner in these efforts.

In addition to these initiatives, James has played a key role in Penzance’s £30-million regeneration projects, advising board members and leveraging his local knowledge to ensure projects benefit residents. He has also innovated revenue-generating approaches to support Penlee House Gallery & Museum, which houses valuable Newlyn School artwork.

His efforts led to a £250,000 grant for transforming a neglected space into an arts café, which will boost revenue and visitor engagement. James’s commitment shines through in his hands-on approach to complex issues, such as tackling antisocial behaviour in collaboration with police and community groups.

His leadership has been crucial in balancing ambitious goals with budget constraints, keeping precept increases low while delivering valuable community improvements. James’s dedication, collaboration, and impact have profoundly benefited Penzance and its residents. 

Commenting after the awards ceremony, James added: “I’m really surprised and grateful to have received the award, which reflects on all the hard work from the team and Councillors of Penzance Council.”