Deputy Mayor to Ashburton Town Council

Karen Turner

Occupation: Retired. Former Deputy Town Clerk to Ashburton Town Council

Council Role: Deputy Chair of the council

What do you enjoy most about serving the community: There is a great satisfaction in being able to “get things done” for the community. This can be a frustrating and long-winded affair sometimes as the town council does not have a back pocket full of cash. Being able to support local organisations, helping to shape the future of our town to be cleaner, more welcoming and having the opportunity to make a real difference is very rewarding.

What is one issue that you would encourage residents to get involved in: In these difficult times with the lack of funding from larger councils and the government I would encourage everyone to get involved in the town by joining organisations, volunteering at town events and supporting our wonderful independent shops.

A fun fact about yourself: Not sure if this is fun but I have been to numerous Sting concerts. My passion for him started in about 1977 and I have been to numerous concerts all over England and once in Luxembourg. I went up to the Albert Hall twice in one week and drag my long-suffering husband to all of them. I’ve been to Scarborough, Cardiff, Manchester, London and one of the best was at the Roundhouse in London when he was performing with Shaggy.