A new Whitchurch councillor says she applied to join after seeing the dedication people had for the town.

Ruth Shepherd, who moved to Whitchurch 18 months ago, was unanimously voted onto the town council on Thursday.

And she is looking forward to bringing her extensive business background to helping people around the town.

“Involving people who live, work and relax in our communities is fundamental to creating sustainable spaces and places around us," she said.

"By being a town councillor I can bring my work-based knowledge and experience to give something back to Whitchurch.

“Having moved here 18 months ago, and having been welcomed and made great friendships in a short time, I can see how passionate people are about Whitchurch.

"It was a desire to be involved in the shaping of Whitchurch, along side those who also care, that prompted me to explore joining the town council.”

Ruth is a business owner, providing stakeholder engagement, consultation and communications services to the built environment (construction/development/planning), working for public and private sector clients throughout the UK.

She works with communities to manage any concerns and possible outcomes for projects, and works with clients to ensure their consultations are delivered in the appropriate manner, and not at risk of challenge.

She is also vice-chair of Shropshire Constructing Excellence (SCE), and a careers mentor through both SCE and the business.