Parish Councillors

Malcolm Bowes

It has been my privilege to live in Bilsdale for over 40 years.  The North York Moors are fantastic.  Shortly before I retired from local government, I was elected by the western Parish Councils to become a Member of the National Park Authority where I am currently Deputy Chair. Bilsdale has a fascinating history.  I have been an active member of the Bilsdale Local History Group and have contributed to three books, including the recently published “Bilsdale Remembered”.  I enjoy walking across the moors, experiencing the varied landscapes, seeing the wildlife and always return feeling more relaxed but tired.  I would encourage you to visit and enjoy this wonderful dale.

Jenny Smith

I am married to Robin and we have lived in Chop Gate for 17 years, moving here from London in 2008.  I joined the Parish Council when I retired in 2018 and I am also Treasurer of the Chop Gate Village Water Supply.  Prior to retiring, I worked in the food, drink, leisure, wholesale and retail industries primarily in operational management, marketing and business strategy.  I now spend my time looking after our Cheviot sheep, dogs and chickens together with our allotment and garden.  We both love travelling and try to get away as much as the animals allow.  I also enjoy walking, especially up on the moors, reading and my latest passion is pottery. 

Brigid Heley

I moved to Bilsdale, the village of Fangdale Beck to be exact, in the autumn of 2012 from Bedfordshire. The majority of my working life was in the legal and fiduciary area as a company director. I sat as a Magistrate for 26 years in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire then latterly in the court in Middlesbrough. I have been involved with activities in the area including a charity for adults with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour. My interests are painting and being a member of the Bilsdale Arts and Crafts Group. I also spin wool from local fleeces with a group of very crafty ladies!!
I enjoy being involved with the Bilsdale Annual Show and when I am able, working with and for the local community.

Stephen Sanderson

I have lived in Bilsdale since April 1966, l was 2.5 years old when I moved here. I am a livestock farmer and also do dry stone walling.  When I have the time I like to play short mat bowls and play for the Chop Gate team.

Katherine Verity

I have lived in Chop Gate since 2020 with my lovely family and pets. I feel very privileged to live in the beautiful Bilsdale area, and enjoy being part of such a caring farming community.

I work as a Special Educational Needs Teacher and am currently setting up a Therapeutic Practice in Chop Gate. I will work as an Ollie Coach, which is a Behavioural and Traumatic Therapist, working with children and adults. I am excited about accepting new clients in the next couple of months.

I enjoy wildflower meadows, wildlife and pets of all varieties. My main interest is neurodiversity and the development and introduction of an education system that is creative, inspirational, inclusive and encourages curiosity. I am currently writing a children’s book to help children see that it’s ok to be unique.

Favourite Quote “Don’t Climb mountains so that people can see you. Climb mountains so you can see the world.” David McCullough JR

Jane Gamble

My husband and I moved to Bilsdale in November 1996. Prior to retiring, I specialised in industry education liaison globally for a multinational chemical company and then ran my own business covering England & Wales from Chop Gate. Now fully retired, I am a member and secretary of the Bilsdale Arts & Crafts Group, run a Book Club and design & sell silver and gold jewellery. I also enjoy pottering in our 1-acre garden, relaxing in the small ‘Zen garden’ section and have been involved in writing and publishing several non-fiction books.