‘Born and bred’ in Somersham, Steve’s professional background is in farming, fruit growing and garden design. More recently his councillor role has dominated. Steve has served on Somersham Parish Council since 1990, following in the footsteps of his father Jeff and grandfather Bernard. He served as Chairman from 2010-2013. In 2004 Steve was elected to the district council to represent Somersham and 5 adjacent villages. At the council he has chaired Overview & Scrutiny panels continuously since 2006. Important areas of involvement and influence include Housing, Public Health, Welfare, Hinchingbrooke Hospital and Leisure Centres. 2006 saw Steve elected onto the County Council, with responsibility for the 8 villages of Somersham and Earith Division. By 2008 he was appointed to serve on the Cabinet, first to lead on Service Transformation and latterly Community Infrastructure. He stood down from Cabinet in 2012 and has since led on important local initiatives.
Recent parish council activity has concentrated on developing the Community Plan and planning the delivery of localism priorities such as highway improvements, public health, assisting older residents, time-banking, supporting business and environmental initiatives.
Despite his considerable workload and wider involvement on 3 councils, Steve insists his biggest reward comes from representing the community and helping local residents.