Two new councillors join Ludlow Town Council

Ludlow Town Council has welcomed two new members.

At an extraordinary meeting on Wednesday (August 26) Jon Argent was selected as the new member for Clee View Ward, while Susan Eastaff will be a councillor for Gallows Bank Ward.

Along with the fellow candidates, the two new councillors had to make a verbal presentation with the members who were in attendance when voting who they wanted.

“I care for the community I live in, and I want to play a practical part in supporting it,” said Councillor Argent, who received five out of six votes.

“Before moving to Ludlow, I chaired a number of parish councils and was also vice-chair of HVOSS – an organisation supporting volunteers, charities and community groups across Herefordshire.

Get the latest headlines delivered straight to your inbox with the Shropshire Star’s free newsletter

“These roles reinforced my belief that strong communities are built listening to people, understanding what matters locally, and working with others to make a town.”

Councillor Argent added that he currently serves on national boards and committees – including Sport England and the Chartered Institute for Management of Sport and Physical Activity.

“I have been fortunate to have a career that has combined leadership, governance and community service, I have often found myself in roles where I’ve brought people together,” he said.

“I have also completed a professional doctorate that focused on effective governance and social enterprise.

“I believe I can bring leadership experience, local government knowledge (including working through devolution related activities) and community commitment. And I welcome the opportunity to contribute my time, skills and enthusiasm to support Ludlow and its residents.

“What excites me about the town council is the chance to help change Ludlow’s future. Being a councillor offers an opportunity help build a community where everyone feels they belong.”

Councillor Eastaff meanwhile was selected to serve Gallows Bank Ward after receiving three out of five votes. Councillor Matthew Taylor did not vote after declaring an interest.

“Despite only living in Ludlow for two years, I’m amazed at how integrated I feel in this community,” said Councillor Eastaff.

“I have over 25 years experience in commercial business. I currently work as a senior risk manager for a global aerospace company in the US, and this affords me the ability to work flexibly so I can now apply for this role.

“I have a background in law, and this has taught me how to review and interpret policy work and details, dealing with complex issues, and analysing large volumes of information to get to the heart of the problem.

“My career has provided me with strong negotiation skills that have been deployed in various areas.

“I know that people don’t always agree, and I’m a firm believer that good solutions come from listening to different perspectives, finding a common ground, and working together.

“I love being part of Ludlow. I currently volunteer locally for various groups and organisations, from the monthly litter picking for Ludlow Town Council to maintaining the station planters for Transport for Wales.

“In addition, I’ve been participating recently as a volunteer for a task and finish group for the town.

“For me, the incentive for a councillor is the opportunity to make a difference to the community. I will bring my business and legal experience, but I will also bring an open mind , a willingness to learn, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference to the community.”

Meanwhile, if an election is not called then the vacancy for Bringewood Ward is set to be carried out via a co-option process in October.