The recommendations were unanimously agreed at a meeting of the Council today.

Provost Thomson was appointed Interim Provost earlier this year when Council agreed that the then Provost Margaret Cooper be granted a period of absence from her elected member duties. Councillor Celine Handibode was also appointed Interim Depute Provost at that time.

The sad passing of Provost Cooper was announced on 24 June 2026.

Provost Thomson said: “It’s a great honour to be the Provost of South Lanarkshire.

“It would be remiss of me not to mention my predecessor Margaret Cooper, who was so dedicated to the role and representing South Lanarkshire.

“Her Touch a Life fundraising initiative and the granting of the Freedom of South Lanarkshire to the Royal Regiment of Scotland are just two of the many achievements for which we will remember Margaret.

“They are big shoes to fill, and I intend to honour Margaret by doing my upmost to treat the role with the respect and dignity it commands.”

Depute Provost Handibode said: “I am delighted to be confirmed as Depute Provost and look forward to working closely with Bert and the team to fulfil the Civic duties.”

In addition to chairing meetings of the Council, the Provost’s role includes attending Citizenship Ceremonies, visits for Diamond Weddings and 100th Birthdays, Remembrance events, Christmas light switch ons and the 2026 Provost Awards. The Depute Provost supports the Provost in these activities.