Fordingbridge Town Council is delighted to have co-opted two new members at the Annual Council meeting last month: Cllr Gareth Johnston and Cllr Stephen Brown.
Cllr Gareth Johnston is a local business owner and long-term resident of Fordingbridge. As the owner of both The Gourmet Grocer and the new cheese and wine bar Juniper & Vine, he has a deep connection to the local economy giving him valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by both residents and businesses.
Beyond his business experience, he has been actively involved in the Fordingbridge Events Group, helping to organise events that bring the community together and promote local businesses.
He is committed to helping Fordingbridge remain a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work, and visit and is passionate about supporting our town and ensuring it continues to thrive.
After living on the High Street, Cllr Stephen Brown purchased and restored a previously neglected property in Fordingbridge, and contributes to the local community fund to help preserve the character and appeal of the area.
Stephen has worked in the automotive industry all his life and is now a local business owner of Forest Edge Motor Company; in addition to running a successful business, he is passionate about supporting local shops and small businesses.
Stephen hopes to act as a voice for struggling local enterprises and is already working on initiatives to bring them together and give back to the community.
Their shared commitment to the town of Fordingbridge make them both invaluable additions to the Council.
