Mrs Hilary Fitzsimons

I have been part of the Smarden Store Action Group for the past 18 months and thoroughly enjoyed being part of this exciting and experienced group determined to preserve access to a store and PO for Smarden residents and parishioners. Although much of the hard work is done the shop is still not totally built or open and I would be thrilled to be part of this endeavour until the idea has become the thriving community hub we all deserve. Before retiring from full time employment 5 years ago, I had worked for the EDF Energy for more than 40 years, engaged in many roles, but primarily as the senior manager charged with developing management skills in others and with overall responsibility for the national Sales team managing 460+ sales staff across the UK. I believe this experience will prove invaluable and appropriate to the development of our successful new Store.

Ms Laura Hawken

My career of 25 years with the World Health Organisation involved planning, finances and management. Before that I was nursing and teaching. In being on the Shop Action Group since June 2018, and passionate about Smarden having a store and Post Office, I have been heavily involved in the planning, fundraising and application to the Post Office for the local branch licence. I am excited with the progress the volunteer team have made, and am now looking to the practical tasks needed to get the new store open and running as a success for all the residents of Smarden Parish, while having minimal impact on the environment.

Mr Simon Hoyle

As an existing committee member, I am standing for re-election to provide continuity to this important community project and ensure the successful completion, opening and ongoing running of the new store. As a Smarden resident with a young family, I have a vested interest in ensuring the Store becomes a lasting success for not only myself, but my children too. I have been part of the committee since its formation, in that time and with the support of the wider team, I have volunteered my services as Architect and local business owner to establish the Community Benefit Society, gain planning permission, support the application of funding, complete a successful share offer and see the project to site. At this critical point in the project, with building works underway, I believe my skill as an Architect and knowledge of the project will provide the continuity to make it a success.

Ms Lea Randolph

I am very proud to have been a member of the Action Group from the beginning and would like to be part of the new Management Committee. I believe that a Community Benefit Store and Post Office will be a great success in Smarden. The Action Group has had tremendous support from villagers and I would like to see their ideas and suggestions put into practice. I believe our Store will be more than just a shop; a place to meet and socialise over a coffee and, along with everyday essentials, stock products that will be a little bit different, provide environmentally friendly (and economic) cleaning tips, together with money-saving recipes and eco-friendly zero waste products. As for my experience, my father was a grocer and I helped him in his store for many years. I have worked in retail and sales but, more importantly, I want to see our Store become a huge success, benefitting the whole community.

Mr Paul Ryan

I recently retired after working for over 40 years in broadcasting for LWT, Setanta, ESPN and BT Sport.

In that time my technical background allowed me to lead complex technical contract negotiations with studio and outside broadcast technical facilities providers across most strands sport, news and light entertainment.

I am sure that these skills would enable me to take an active part in the running of the Community Store.