Bob Thornton, left, and Aaron Hood have been elected to Shepton Mallet Town Council

New members elected to Shepton Mallet Town Council

Paul JonesJuly 18, 20250 Comment0

SHEPTON Mallet has tow new councillors after elections on Thursday (July 17).

Aaron Hood and Bob Thornton will represent the West and East wards respectively on Shepton Mallet Town Council after the poll, which saw hundreds of people turn out to cast their vote.

A council spokesperson said: “A huge thank you to everyone who came out and voted yesterday.”

“Thank you to all candidates for putting themselves forward to be apart of Shepton Mallet Town Council, and thanks to everyone who turned out to vote. “We look forward to welcoming Aaron and Bob into the council.”

The new councillors have given the following insights into themselves.

Cllr Hood said: “I grew up in this town, going to St Paul’s and Whitstone schools.

“I ran Parkrun every weekend, and volunteered for junior Parkrun from a young age, seeing just how great a community Shepton has.

“That’s why I’m eager to explore options for a community space in Shepton – having lost the leisure centre where I worked, I’m keen to see what can be done to revitalise community spaces in the town.

“On top of this, I’m prepared to campaign against further bed closures at local community hospitals. I will work hard and listen to your concerns and take every opportunity for Shepton as it comes.”

And Cllr Thornton said: “I moved here with my family in 1986 and we love Shepton.

“I was head of several secondary and comprehensive schools and have served as a school governor. As a result, I can take difficult decisions and face up to tough challenges.

“I’m an active member of the Rotary Club, bringing people of all ages together, raising money for local charities and supporting community projects and youth programmes.

“Being part of many community projects has shown me the power of teamwork. I love the positive impact of working together, whether that’s giving young people a space to thrive, helping those in need, or strengthening community spirit across Shepton.

“As a Shepton Mallet Town Councillor I would focus on: Developing community facilities in Shepton Mallet, for people of all ages; Finding a way to increase residents’ access to leisure facilities; Supporting the aspirations of Future Shepton to help breathe new life into our gorgeous town.”