Cllr Martin Ractliffe
ChairMartin is the longest-serving member of the Parish Council and is the current Chair. Martin, along with his wife Carol, operate a self-catering holiday cottage business in Sudgrove and has many friends worldwide as a result. He enjoys his role with the Council and is keen to see more community involvement.
Cllr Kevin Allin
Vice-ChairKevin has been with the Parish Council since 2020 and currently serves as Vice-Chair.
Originally from Wales, Kevin and his lovely wife Debbie came to Miserden in 1998 where they have been warmly welcoming visitors and locals alike at the Carpenter’s Arms ever since.
Their extended family includes six children, 28 grandchildren and two great grandchildren! Kevin also enjoys sport, especially rugby and horse racing, as well as gardening and cider making.
Cllr Laura Cobb
CouncillorYou will no doubt recognise this friendly face one-half of the dynamic duo that runs our community shop, Miserden Stores and Post Office.
Originally from Reading, Laura and her family moved to the parish in 2007. Laura is an integral part of St Andrew’s church, organising services, training, socials and being a warm, welcoming face of the congregation.
Laura joined the council in 2022, bringing a positive and well-valued voice to the council.
When she’s not hard at work or volunteering in the community, you’ll find her planting in her garden, walking her dogs or spending time with her family and friends.
Council Staff
Gwen Durland
Clerk to the councilGwen became the clerk for the Parish Council in 2020.
Originally from Colorado in the US, Gwen has lived in the UK since 2005 and has been a resident of Miserden village with her children since 2018.
She is an avid animal lover who lives with 2 cats, 2 giant rabbits, a prodigal tortoise and her daughter’s cheeky cockatiel. In her spare time she’ll be found drawing, painting, and creating commissioned portraits
of houses, pets, and the occasional human!