Councillors & Staff
The Town Council is made up of fourteen councillors and employs three members of staff who are The Town Clerk (full time), a Senior Administrator (part-time) and a Cleaner (part-time).
Councillors
Cllr Sue Habberfield
Deputy Mayor
Co-opted for North Newton Ward August 2022
Bio: I have proudly called North Newton home for over 35 years and have always enjoyed being actively involved in village life. As a member of the Village Hall Committee and a supporter of our local Flower Show, I am passionate about helping to keep our community vibrant and welcoming.
For the past four years, I have served as a Parish Councillor, working to represent residents and support the needs of our village. As a farmer’s wife, I understand the importance of rural life and the value of strong community spirit.
Alongside my community roles, I am also a professional cake maker, combining creativity and attention to detail in my work. Whether through volunteering, local events, or helping neighbours where I can, I always strive to be as helpful and supportive as possible.
Cllr Alan Bradford
Councillor
Bio:
Cllr Paul Brown
Councillor
Co-opted for Hamp Bridge Ward July 2025
Bio:
Cllr Louise Dennis-Smith
Councillor
Bio: I am a community-minded person who is passionate about supporting and helping people in our local area. I became a councillor because I care deeply about the wellbeing of our community and want to make a positive difference in people’s everyday lives.
Being a councillor gives me the opportunity to listen to residents, stand up for their concerns, and work collaboratively to find practical solutions. I gain a real sense of purpose and fulfilment from serving others and contributing to a stronger, more connected community.
Cllr Paul Herbert
Councillor
Co-opted for North Petherton Ward December 2023
Bio:
Cllr Kevan Power
Councillor
Co-opted for North Petherton Ward November 2024
Bio:
Cllr Linda Hyde
Councillor
Co-opted for Hamp Bridge Ward July 2025
Bio:
Cllr Richard Ives
Councillor
Elected for North Petherton Ward July 2026
Bio:
Cllr Timothy Locke
Councillor
Elected for North Petherton Ward July 2026
Bio: At 24, I’m proud to be one of the younger members of this town council.
I come from a working-class background. I’m honest, independently minded and committed to standing up for what I believe is right.
I want to be a councillor who feels real to people, is approachable and genuinely listens.
My priorities include making sure younger people, families and older residents feel heard, speaking up on local issues, pushing for greater transparency and better communication, and supporting local businesses, charities and community groups.
Above all, I want people across North Petherton to feel heard and properly represented. I hope to do exactly that.
Cllr Elizabeth Smith
Councillor
Co-opted for North Petherton Ward July 2025
Bio: I was first co-opted as a Councillor for North Petherton, in July 2025. I was motivated to join the Town Council since becoming a parent to two young children and having more involvement in the Community and utilising more of the facilities. I work full time alongside the volunteer role as Councillor, the balance the two roles, along with being a parent is both equally challenging and rewarding. I look forward to becoming more embedded in the Council and supporting the wonderful community of North Petherton.
Cllr Phillip Spencer
Councillor
Co-opted for North Petherton Ward
Bio:
Cllr Simon Sharman
Councillor
Co-opted for North Petherton Ward April 2024
Bio: I serve as a town councillor to represent my community and help shape decisions that make a real difference locally. I’m Vice Chair of the Planning & Highways Committee, where I play an active role in matters like development, infrastructure, and local services.
I take pride in listening to residents, standing up for local priorities, and being part of positive change. The role gives me a strong sense of purpose, builds lasting connections, and allows me to see the real impact of working hard for the community.
