PFCA Trustees 

Ben Bennett – Chairman

Ben moved to Painters Forstal with his family from Namibia in 2006. He was an active member of the Village Amenities Committee and has been Chairman of the Community Association since 2019. Ben is a Professor of Trade Economics and Deputy Director of the Natural Resources Institute. He is passionate about both international and local development.

Viv Bowman – Treasurer

I have lived in the area since 1985 raising my family in this wonderful countryside. I work in Social Care and recognise the importance of local services for local people. You will find me walking my dog, Bailey, all around Painter’s Forstal, I am often apologising for him as he loves to “borrow” another dog’s ball.

Becky Towler – Membership Secretary

I have lived in Painters Forstal since 2010 and have been a Trustee since PFCA was formed. I have been involved in helping with different fundraising and community events. I am pleased to now run the village Communi-Tea afternoons which provide a warm and friendly space for all members of the community from any age to get together.

Glennis Bridge

I have lived in the area of Painters Forstal for over 30 years. My interests and hobbies are gardening, theatre, cinema, travel and socialising with family friends. I joined PFCA to make new friends and help the community. It was a proud day when our splendid hall was finally built and had its official opening. I look forward to seeing the hall thrive within all age groups within our community.

Barbara Elliott

I joined Painters Forstal Community Association because I want to see the village have a hall where we can all meet. As WI President, we lost a few members when our meeting place, The Champion Hall, was taken away from us. I am a reader and a knitter. Most of my knitted toys have gone to London to my sister’s friends when they have new babies. I live in Throwley which is a few miles away.

Phil Cornelius

I have lived in Painters Forstal with my partner and two sons for over 20 years. I work as a self-employed TV technician and have been running my own business since late 2017. I joined the village committee, then the VAC, as a member and became a Trustee after the transition to the PFCA.

Alastair Greason

I work for the NHS, and have live in the Parish since 2006. The community spirit was a huge attraction for us moving here. I have served as a Trustee volunteered with PFCA (formerly the VAC) since 2013, as I can see how vital a community hall is for our futures.

Carol Gillatt

I am a wife, mother and grandmother. In my professional life I work for Active Life Ltd as their Community Exercise Manager. I joined PFCA as a Trustee in January 2021 as I feel quite strongly that every village deserves a community hall. I am excited about the opportunity to be involved in the latter stages of the building approval and construction. I look forward to the coming years and all of the fun social activities that will take place.

Barbara Blunkell

I have lived in Painters Forstal since 1979, initially, opposite the village shop – a real hub for getting to know everyone. In my professional life I taught as an English teacher at the Abbey School and then North School in Ashford. Since my retirement, I’ve been volunteering at the Pilgrim’s Hospice and our local food bank. I joined PFCA in December 2019 and have thoroughly enjoyed being involved in the group. I'm thrilled with our wonderful new hall. It's been a long struggle to get it built, but I'm sure everyone agrees that it has been worth it.

Clare Annand

I moved to Painters Forstal in 2011 with Richard and our two boys to run The Alma. Speaking to many people in the pub it became clear that as a Parish we were going to miss not having a hall to call our own. I initially joined the VAC (PFCA) to help with events to raise awareness and funds. I have greatly enjoyed being involved with this group over the years and look forward to celebrating the completion of our Community Hall.

Shiona Bennett

Shiona moved to the village in 2005 having lived overseas for 12 years. She became involved in village activities with her three children and was later Treasurer of the VAC. A retired Secondary Science Teacher and looking forward to being involved in activities once the Community Hall is built.

Jacky Searley

I have been involved with the village for over 40 years, knowing a lot of the residents past and present. Helping with the youth club many years ago. I was a member of the committee of the old PAINTER'S FORSTAL AMENITIES helping to organise all different types of events for the village. Now a trustee of PFCA and proud to be part of our lovely new awaited Hall and community.

Sinead Hackett

Sinead, originally from Ireland, moved to Hanslett's Lane in 2021 after a number of years living and working in London. She lives with her partner Tom, son Alfie, two dogs and two horses! Sinead holds an LLB in Law and European Studies and an MBA in Finance. She hopes her skills and experience will help continue the great work already done by previous Trustees and further develop the success of the Hall as a cornerstone in the community for all generations, young and old. 

Helen Goodwin

I have lived in Painters Forstal since 2006. Since retiring recently from the NHS, after 40 years, I now have more time to dedicate to the community. I’m looking forward to seeing the Community Hall develop further and become part of the team.