Our Chairman, Cllr Avril Hunter, has a passion for the planet and during her year as Chairman will be encouraging more of us to cut our carbon emissions.
Avril grew up in nearby Orpington and attended Orpington Grammar School for Girls. During her studies, Avril discovered she had a natural affinity for science and her first job was a Pathology Biochemistry Technician. But, her career was put on hold to raise her young family.
After moving to Sevenoaks 46-years ago, and once her children were older, Avril’s career was reignited when she took up a post as a Chemistry Technician at Sevenoaks School.
But another challenge beckoned, which helped to put Avril’s science knowledge to good use.
Avril was elected to the Council in 1995 and within a few years, she became our Cabinet Member with responsibility for the environment. Avril introduced our clear sack recycling scheme and our garden waste collection service. Both schemes have helped our residents recycle tens of thousands of tonnes of their waste and remain popular to this day.
Avril says: “I’ve always been passionate about the environment, so it was an honour to introduce two major recycling schemes that help us live more sustainably.
“Now we face the immediate and urgent need to tackle climate change. It’s a big challenge, but I believe we can all do our bit to cut our carbon gas emissions, helping to protect the planet for future generations.
“Over the next year, I will do my best to promote the Council’s work to make its services Net Zero while encouraging and supporting residents and businesses to cut their carbon footprint too.
“I am also planning to raise funds for the Sevenoaks Volunteer Transport Bureau, my chosen charity during my year as Chairman.”
Cllr Hunter has been married to Allan for 51 years and together they have a daughter, two sons and eight grandchildren.
Contacting the Chairman
The Chairman welcomes invitations to attend community events.
To invite Avril, please complete our online form.
You can also follow or contact the Chairman via Twitter.
The Vice-Chairman
Cllr Alan Layland who represents Edenbridge South & West, is the Council's Vice-Chairman.