Lib Dem council slammed for 'big waste of money' after spending £30k giving every child anniversary medal

Lib Dem council slammed for 'big waste of money' after spending £30k giving every child anniversary medal

A council has been slammed over what has been described as a "big waste of money" after approving a spending splurge of £30,000 to award thousands of children commemorative medals as part of celebrations marking the city’s 800th anniversary. The plan was backed by Salisbury City Council at a full meeting, despite objections from several councillors who questioned whether public money should be used on such a trivial project. Around 7,250 children aged from nine months to 18 years are estimated to live within Salisbury parish. The proposed medals will form part of the city’s 800th anniversary celebrations in 2027, commemorating the Royal Charter granted to Salisbury by King Henry III in 1227. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say The council has agreed to use money from its general reserve to commission, manufacture and package the medals. Officers will now seek quotations for up to 10,500 medallions, allowing additional pieces to be produced if required. The proposed design could feature either Henry III or King Charles III on the front. The reverse may carry Salisbury’s coat of arms or an image of the cathedral spire, alongside the wording “Salisbury 800 Charter Anniversary 1227–2027”. Ward councillors are expected to help distribute the medals through nurseries, pre-schools and schools across the city during 2027. Councillor Brian Dalton, who proposed the motion alongside Councillor Sam Charleston, defended the initiative during the full council meeting. He said the medals would give children a tangible connection to the anniversary, and allow them to feel part of the city-wide celebrations. Councillor Sharon Rideout raised concerns about the environmental impact of producing the medals, and questioned whether children attending schools outside Salisbury might be excluded from receiving one. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS David Attenborough pumpkin mosaic breaks world record Bridgerton filming location in bitter planning row as neighbours rage at car convoys a