I WAS born in France but have lived in England most of my life and in Bewdley since 1978.
I am married and live in Wribbenhall with children and grandchildren also living in Bewdley.
After I retired from higher education and had time to devote to our community, I stood as a Labour candidate for Wribbenhall and was elected to the Town Council in May 2023 and then became Mayor in May 2025.
Being a councillor and mayor has been an eye-opener and a challenge.
We represent the interests of Bewdley and advise the decision-makers in Wyre Forest District Council and Worcestershire County Council which occasionally overturn our recommendations.
We control our local finances and ensure we make the best use of your taxes. Within the limits of our budget, we aim to improve life in Bewdley.
Since coming into office in 2023, I have worked in the council to reduce congestion and we have launched a free shuttle bus service which, on days of big Bewdley events, brings residents and visitors into town from Bewdley High School and the Running Horse where they can park for free.
To reduce dangerous speeds reported by our residents, we have invested in vehicle activated signs which collect speeding data and remind drivers to slow down.
I also coordinate the Community Speed Watch scheme, set up with West Mercia Police with a team of volunteers, to monitor and report speeding cars.
We get excellent support from the community but need more volunteers so we can run more sessions.
Finally, after a long campaign from Bewdley Town Council, speeds have been reduced to 20mph in the town centre and 50mph on the whole of the bypass.
Being mayor is a great honour and very enjoyable – I represent Bewdley in Wyre Forest and raise awareness about activities and events in our community.
I have selected three charities to support for my term of office – the Robert Poysor fund for CRY, The William Mills Foundation and the Emily Jordan Foundation.
You can find out details of past and future events on my ‘Bewdley Mayor 2025-2026 Nicole Harper’ Facebook page.
