Gill BirchI have lived in Bracknell Forest for over 40 years, and I love the open spaces and wooded areas. Being a retired teacher, I know how important the environment is for everyone to live in and enjoy. I support the council’s Climate Change initiatives so that we can conserve the wonderful area we live in. I have supported The Pines School by being Vice-Chairman of the Governors for many years, and I was so proud when they achieved their recent ‘Good’ Ofsted, which was well deserved. All schools in Bracknell are good or better, a huge achievement and so important for our young people. Speeding is an issue in the area, so I set up a Community Speedwatch Group working with Thames Valley Police, residents, and colleagues to raise awareness. I am on many committees, including being Chairman of Education, Skills and Growth. This has enabled me to closely look at Special Needs and Disabilities, Community Infrastructure Levy, Apprenticeships, Care Leavers and produce reviews with recommendations to improve services which have been implemented. I want the Bracknell Forest Council to continue to offer residents in Hanworth the best possible service and value for money, to maintain its green open spaces and support local groups. With my fellow councillors, we hold regular monthly surgeries, do street surgeries, and produce regular In Touch newsletters. I will always act in what I believe to be your best interests – to get the best possible services and environment for you to live in and enjoy. |
Mike GibsonI moved to the Birch Hill, Bracknell Forest with my wife and family in 2015. I have been a Town councillor since 2017 and a borough councillor since 2019. I have previously been a councillor and I work in public consultation. I studied Politics and Modern History at Brunel and Public Administration at Warwick Business School. Prior to moving to Bracknell I have been involved in several community organisations including being a school governor, where I was Chair of Admissions and I have previously been a Probation Board Trustee. On becoming a Bracknell Town Councillor in 2017 I have worked as the vice chair on the planning committee. Since becoming a Borough Councillor I have chaired the Overview and Scrutiny panel for Health and Care where I have led the review on mentally health in the borough. I consider myself fortunate to be named Champion for the Voluntary Services and working with those that have volunteered and done so much over the last few years and I have been a trustee on Involve Community Services the local voluntary organisation. I believe my experience and enthusiasm have shown my commitment to, and support for others in the area. I am a keen singer and have been invited to events around the world including San Francisco free folk festival and Chicago University Folk Festival. I run the Shanty Session In Sidmouth Folk Week raising money for the local Lifeboats. When I have time to relax I am mostly chasing our children around Bracknell’s numerous parks. |
Michael SkinnerHaving lived in this area nearly all my life and have seen many positive changes within Bracknell. I have been a borough councillor for some time, and I was previously on the Board of Silva Homes. I have been on multiple committees, and I really appreciate the positive impact the committees have had in improving the services the council delivers for residents. My experience on the council has enabled me to better understand local issues. I live in Hanworth, and I feel it’s important to help others locally to gain the best possible quality of life. I also believe it’s vital we all get the best value for money for the things we all rely upon. I believe it's critical that our young people get the best education they can. I would like to make sure that our housing needs are met to the highest standards. I support new developments, but they need to be carefully considered so they fit in with local need. I would want to see parking improvements across our borough as I’m sure there's more that can be done. If re-elected, I will be seeking more improvements. I want us to keep as many of our green spaces as possible, and I want to see local business thrive. When I’m not working or doing council work, I relax by making wine or sailing. |