East Hanningfield Parish Council is made up of local residents who have been elected or co-opted to represent the interests of the parish and make decisions on behalf of the community.
To promote openness and transparency, all councillors are required to comply with the Councillors’ Code of Conduct. This includes declaring any personal or financial interests that could influence, or be perceived to influence, their decision-making.
Councillors must register their interests with the Monitoring Officer at Chelmsford City Council and declare any relevant interests at Council meetings when required. The Register of Members’ Interests is maintained by Chelmsford City Council and can be viewed here: Parish Councillors Registers of Interest
Cllr John Bedding
Chairman
Representative to Speedwatch
Cllr Paul Garner
Vice Chairman
Cllr Mark Priest
Special Interest: Civil Emergency Planning
Cllr Lincoln Roberts
Clare has been part of village life for more than 30 years, bringing long-standing local knowledge, practical community experience, and a clear commitment to protecting and strengthening the village.
Clare moved to the village in 1994 to run the Windmill Tavern, where she spent eight years at the heart of local life, getting to know residents and becoming actively involved in the community.
After leaving the Windmill Tavern, Clare worked at the pre-school as Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator and provided one-to-one support for children. She later continued this work at the village primary school, alongside roles as a classroom assistant and midday assistant.
As her three children became more independent, Clare became self-employed as a dog home boarder and walker. Over time, through ten years of experience and extensive further education, she developed her work into dog behaviour consultancy, which she continues to enjoy on a semi-retired basis.
Clare has supported a wide range of local fundraising and community activities over the years. She is currently a member of the Events Subcommittee of Hannasfield, is helping to manage the annual Art Event, and continues to support events organised by All Saints Church.
Clare is keen to promote community engagement and communication across the village. She is also a passionate advocate for protecting and enhancing the village environment, including helping to secure the protection of the old churchyard, alongside other volunteers; walking and checking footpaths; and regular litter picks.
Melanie has lived in East Hanningfield for over 13 years and feels deeply rooted in the village and its people. She brings three decades of NHS experience, with 15 years spent leading work in quality, safety, governance, and risk, giving her a strong foundation in public service, accountability, and thoughtful decision‑making.
Community life is important to Melanie. She helps organise local events through a subgroup of Hanna’s Field Charity, working with volunteers to raise funds that support the village hall and church. She also spent around eight years as a governor at East Hanningfield Primary School, strengthening her understanding of local needs and the principles that guide public life.
Melanie is keen to support local initiatives, bring people together, protect green spaces, and help ensure the village remains a welcoming place for residents of all ages. She is committed to listening, being visible, and helping shape projects that make a positive difference for East Hanningfield.
Cllr David Shrouder

Lucy White,
Clerk to the Parish Council & Responsible Financial Officer,
Coronation Cottage, The Street, Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RQ

