Election of New Chairman and Vice Chairman

At the Council's Annual Meeting May, Cllr. Jason Parker was elected as the new Chairman, and Cllr. Elaine Sherman was elected as the new Vice Chairman of Somercotes Parish Council.

Cllr. Parker said: "I am deeply honoured to have been elected Chairman of Somercotes Parish Council by my fellow Councillors. It’s a privilege to be entrusted with this role, and I’m committed to serving our community with energy, compassion, and integrity.

I was born in Somercotes and have lived here all my life. It’s not just the place I call home, it’s where I chose to build a life, and give back to the community that shaped me. For the past 39 years, I’ve worked as a postal worker, which has given me a unique insight into the people, streets, and spirit of our village. Along the way, I’ve also been involved in concert promotion and the catering business, experiences that taught me the value of hard work, creativity, and connecting people through shared experiences.

My passion lies in protecting and celebrating Somercotes’ rich heritage while also helping shape a positive future for everyone who lives here. I truly believe that with cooperation, kindness, and a shared vision, we can make Somercotes not just a great place to live but a place we’re all proud to call home.

Over the coming year, I’ll be working closely with the Parish Council, local organisations, and residents to champion projects that bring real benefit to the community whether that’s improving our shared spaces, supporting local groups, or simply making sure people feel heard, valued, and supported.

This is your Parish, and your voice matters. I look forward to meeting more of you over the months ahead and working together to create something special for everyone who calls Somercotes home."

Cllr. Elaine Sherman said: "I am delighted to introduce myself, Elaine Sherman the newly appointed Vice Chair for Somercotes Parish Council. Unfortunately I am not from Derbyshire, I am in fact a blow in from Birmingham! However, since moving to the area I have been very happy and I am honoured to serve the ward of Somercotes. I am learning daily about the rich history that Somercotes has experienced, and I have a personal passion that this history should be showcased for the community and visitors alike.

I am especially excited to serve the Somercotes Parish alongside our newly appointed Chair, Cllr Jason Parker, as we have met with various community groups and have already received many suggestions on how the parish council can best serve the community. In the next few weeks we will be conducting more engagement work with residents, so that we can focus on an action plan to address some of the issues that have been brought to our attention, but also we want to start working on initiatives and projects that the community of Somercotes can participate with to highlight what a rich and vibrant community we are!

We are aware that in recent times the newsletter ceased to be distributed however, moving forward we intend to ensure this media is re-established to keep you all up to date with the great things that will be taking place in Somercotes.

If anyone has any ideas they would like to share with us regarding the community please do not hesitate to contact myself or the Chair. I am looking forward to an exciting year ahead where we can work to create some great initiatives that brings positive change for our vibrant community."

Published: 07/06/2025 Published by: Somercotes Parish Council

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