3rd October 2022

Bradford on Avon Town Clerk retires after 23 years as the Town Council welcomes its new Town Clerk/ Chief Executive

Bradford on Avon Town Council says thank you and goodbye to its Town Clerk as she retires after over two decades of dedicated service.

Sandra Bartlett has been with the Town Council since 1999 and has worked tirelessly to shape Bradford on Avon into the town it is today.

Her leadership has been critical in the Town Council achieving Gold Quality from the Local Council Award Scheme, bringing back the Tourist Information Centre, overseeing the transfer of assets from Wiltshire Council, saving the Youth & Community Centre and public toilets from closure, and the refurbishment of St Margaret’s Hall.

Sandra also led the charge in bringing back the Flower & Produce Show with the help of her father.

Sandra Bartlett said: “The Town Council has grown so much since I started, and it has been a pleasure to see its journey.

“I want to thank all my colleagues and I hope they have learnt something from me, as I have learned so much from them.

“I’ve always been proud of how the Town Council has worked with community groups to achieve the best for the town.”

Sandra will be succeeded by the former Director of Operations, Ian Brown, who has been appointed to a new role of Chief Executive and Town Clerk, following a full recruitment process

Since joining the Town Council in 2018, Ian has worked side by side with Sandra on key projects.

He has had a long career in local government both at a district and unitary council level.

Ian Brown said: “I am absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity to lead such a forward-thinking Town Council.

“I hope to follow in Sandra’s illustrious footsteps and continue to develop the Town Council in supporting the town.”

Sandra added: “I know Bradford on Avon Town Council is in safe hands with Ian, and I’m sure he’ll deliver everything in the Business Plan and much more.”

Town Mayor, Cllr Katie Vigar said: “Sandra has guided several generations of Councillors through their work and overseen numerous projects which are of lasting benefit to the town.

“She has been a calm and popular presence, effectively building teams involving staff, Councillors and residents, and will be greatly missed.

“We welcome Ian Brown to this important role at a time when the council has taken on more assets and has key projects to progress.”

(l-r) Retiring Town Clerk, Sandra Bartlett, Town Mayor, Cllr Katie Vigar and new Town Clerk/ Chief Executive, Ian Brown