THE Devon County Council member for Holsworthy Rural has responded to comments by the town’s mayor where he described her relationship with the town council as ‘non-existent’.

At the annual town meeting of Holsworthy, Cllr Jon Hutchings, the mayor of Holsworthy said: “My next comment is not political in any way. The town council’s relationship with our current county councillor for Holsworthy Rural is broken.

“The council was informed that there were comments against individual councillors (of Holsworthy Town Council) back in June 2025, but the actual complaints have never been officially received. This has meant no communications since the last election between us as councillors and our county council representative.

“The county councillor has attended one full council meeting and had one private meeting to try and resolve the situation in the last 12 months.

“Numerous branches have been offered but we have got nowhere. This only means that Holsworthy, the largest town in the division of 30 parishes are missing out on any county council issues going both ways.

“Luckily, we have some very good officers at Devon County Council, so we have been able to bypass our councillor. I mention this as I feel you (the residents) should all be aware as the town’s electorate.”

In response, Cllr Lynne Rowsell, the Devon County Council member for Holsworthy Rural said: “I do not recognise the suggestion that I am not engaging with Holsworthy Town Council or with local residents. Such claims are entirely unfounded.

“The mayor’s own comments highlight the reality of my role. I represent 30 parishes. I do not drive, and I carry out this work single-handedly. Alongside attending parish councils where possible, I manage county meetings, in-person engagements, liaison with departments and businesses affecting the ward, and a significant volume of correspondence.

“Despite these demands, I make every effort to attend meetings when I can.

“Furthermore, I maintain regular and constructive communication with the Town Clerk and Assistant Town Clerk, both of whom are professional, helpful, and highly competent. I have also held productive discussions with Town Council members — for example, on parking issues — which have delivered positive outcomes for the town.

“I agree with the mayor that Devon County Council has strong and capable officers. However, it should be clearly understood that DCC officers do not bypass elected county councillors to deal directly with town or parish councils. This would be contrary to established policy and would undermine the impartiality of the Council.

“I was elected to serve the people of Holsworthy Rural, not to tolerate abuse or misogynistic remarks. It is deeply disappointing that such behaviour has been directed toward me. Attempts to misrepresent my work or apply pressure based on personal animosity are unacceptable and undermine public service.

“While I remain committed to working professionally for the benefit of the area, I will not attend meetings where I am subjected to inappropriate or abusive conduct. Instead, I have chosen to engage with constituents through alternative and effective channels. Contrary to suggestions, my relationship with the communities I serve remains strong, active, and valued by those I represent.”