WESTON Town Council has welcomed Sarah Pearse as its new town clerk.

Sarah, who has worked at the council since 2006, has ascended from her role as deputy town clerk in 2017 to this new position following an extensive interview process.

Sarah has a strong bond with the town, having been a resident since the age of three.

She attended Hutton Primary, St Martins, and Wyvern Comprehensive School before starting her own family and raising her two daughters in the town.

The new town clerk has qualifications in Finance and Business Administration, including AAT Accountancy and National Diplomas in Business and Administration.

She has also obtained a BA Honours degree in Community Governance during her tenure at the town council.

A spokesperson from the town council outlined her passions: "Sarah's passion for Community Development and enhancing the Health and Wellbeing of the residents has been evident throughout her career.

"Notably, during the onset of COVID-19, Sarah led the transformation of her team into a community resilience unit.

"This initiative was pivotal in addressing the community's immediate needs, fostering collaboration among newly formed volunteer groups, and establishing the community fridge - a testament to the solidarity and resourcefulness of Weston's people during challenging times.

"Sarah also has managed and lead all of the council’s major projects since 2009. These include the development and creation of the Water Adventure Play Park, Castle Batch all-inclusive SEND park, refurbishments at the Blakehay Theatre and Milton Road Cemetery chapel and in more recent years, Weston Museum and now 32 Waterlooo street.

"Championing the ethos of collaboration and partnership, Sarah has been passionate about uniting community groups in supporting the council's anti-racism commitment and address the environmental emergency.

"Her vision for Weston involves building upon these foundations to foster stronger, safer communities, whilst also supporting sustaining heritage and cultural arts events in the town.

"Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support from colleagues and councillors, her appointment marks a new chapter in Weston Town Council's history, one where community, resilience, and shared growth remain at the forefront of its mission."

Sarah is taking over from Malcolm Nicholson, who retired last month after a 42-year-long career in local government law and management.