Shirley-Anne Sains

Party: Lib Dem
Ward: Castle

Contact details

I moved to Lewes over 50 years ago to start work in the old Borough Council, I worked in the Borough Treasurers Office in the Council Offices in Fisher Street. I also worked at the Lewes Boys Club when my youngest child started school, at the new Pells Infants School, now sadly no more. I finished my working career with 13 years at the University of Sussex as Co-ordinator and Administrator of the Security Department.

I have spent many years surrounded by the problems young people have, I find that whatever the problem, small or large, there is much to be gained by talking and listening and I found I had an empathy with students, much to my surprise. This experience has helped me with being a councillor.

My interests include genealogy, ancient Egypt, painting, reading, gardening and local history. I like to, when I can, play bowls, and I am learning the art of archery. I like to visit beautiful gardens and houses and I am a member of the National Trust. Committee member of Landport Residents Association and Trustee of the Landport Youth Centre.

I have been a Town Councillor for three years and I enjoy the day to day experience of meeting and connecting with the residents of my ward. My hopes for Lewes include cleaner air, a better traffic system, more recreational facilities, care of our elderly, homes affordable for all and the protection of the unique heritage which we enjoy in this town.

During the mayoral year in 2021 to 2022, I was not only the Deputy Mayor but, also Mayoress to Councillor Catlin and the experience has taught me much about the mayoralty. It has also given me great pleasure to serve with Stephen.

It is with immense pride that I now hold the office of Mayor of Lewes and I shall strive to uphold the traditions of this amazing town and maybe I can give back a small part of what this town has given me.