New council chairman chooses charity to support this year
A COUNCIL’S new chairman has chosen to raise funds for an organisation that supports veterans of
the Armed Forces.
Cllr Robbie Rodiss was elected as chairman of Durham County Council at the authority’s annual
meeting and will be supported in his duties by Cllr Jackie Teasdale, who is serving as vice-chair. Cllr
Rodiss was elected as a councillor on Thursday 1 May and is also a Charter Trustee for the City of
Durham and member of the Police Scrutiny Panel.
During his year as chair of the council, Cllr Rodiss will be raising money for the Armed Forces and
Veterans Breakfast Clubs of County Durham. The charity provides a vital community where veterans
can come together to share stories, find support and enjoy a hearty breakfast.
Chairman Rodiss said: “It is a great honour to be elected Chairman of Durham County Council.
One of the best things about being the Chairman is that one can help raise funds for a local charity
during their year of office.
“I’ve chosen to support the Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Clubs in County Durham
because they are more than just a place for a hot meal. They’re also a place where former members
of our armed forces can meet up for a chat, a laugh and, if they need it, support.
“Social isolation is a terrible thing and if I can help to alleviate it in anyway then I know my choice
was the right one. Please support me in raising vital funds and prove that veterans are really
appreciated.”
Cllr Rodiss, aged 69, represents the electoral division of Crook and was educated at Wolsingham
Secondary School Initially, Cllr Rodiss worked at Ramar’s Clothing Factory, before working at Fosters
Brick Flats. He then joined Durham Constabulary in 1980 and served for 31 years as a police and
detective constable before retiring and joining the British Transport Police for four years as a covert
intelligence officer operating nationwide.
Married to Carole, a retired senior executive officer at the Land Registry, they have one child and
two grandchildren. Cllr Rodiss’s interests include home cooking, creative writing, travelling across
the world, art, military history, gardening, and painting.
Vice-chair Jackie Teasdale was elected to Durham County Council on Thursday 1 May, 2025 and
represents the Delves Lane electoral division.
