Mandy Chilcott

Bio

Born and raised in Cornwall I moved to Somerset when I married and have lived in Minehead for 27 years with my husband and 2 children.

I had a career in banking much of which was spent supporting small businesses across the SW including Minehead and its surrounds.

I have been a local councillor for 17 years previously at Minehead Town Council, West Somerset District Council and currently Somerset Council. Positions held have included Deputy Leader of West Somerset District Council and Deputy Leader & Portfolio Holder for Finance and Resources at Somerset County Council. This has given me broad experience in areas including Budget Setting and Monitoring, Audit, HR, Assets, Risk Management and re-organisation.  It has also allowed me the flexibility to be a carer when it was needed for a family member.

As a local councillor I was a representative on the Quantock Hills Joint Advisory Committee where I learnt much about the local Landscape and how the habitat was protected, managed and monitored.

I have for many years worked with numerous local voluntary sector organisations and I currently chair the League of Friends of Minehead Hospital. Volunteering underpins our communities and supporting one another forms part of the fabric of Exmoor – it is something to be appreciated and valued.

I feel honoured and humbled to live in such a beautiful part of the world, but do not take it for granted. Exmoor is a special place with a wealth of habitats ranging from moorlands and valleys to the coastline. We must ensure that its many rare species and biodiversity is protected but also that its communities remain resilient to ensure that it continues to inspire and support future generations whether they wish to live in, work in or visit Exmoor.