Brontë Birthplace

Meet the Candidates for the
Brontë Birthplace Committee

We are excited to introduce the 12 dedicated individuals running for the Brontë Birthplace Committee. Each candidate brings a unique set of skills and experiences that will contribute to the future success of the Brontë Birthplace. Take a moment to learn about them before casting your vote.

Steve

Steve Stanworth

Current Vice Chair of the
Brontë Birthplace Committe

I have transformed the Brontë Bell Chapel from an overgrown ruin into a historical part of the Brontë way. Leading a small group of volunteers for 25 years, partnered with the local council and community to help maintain the site.

The skills I bring to the committee…

Mazhar

Mazhar Ellahi

Current Treasurer of the
Brontë Birthplace Committee

I have a background in finance and am a trustee of a local Arts organisation. In the last ten years I have developed a number of social enterprises working with older people around issues dealing with isolation, loneliness and dementia.

The skills I bring to the committee…

Jenny

Jenny Horton

Current Director of the
Brontë Birthplace Committee

I am Thornton born and bread. I have worked in a local accountancy practice for 33 years and been the senior partner for 23 years. I have completed community development courses and set up various groups whilst working as a community development worker at a local church.

The skills I bring to the committee…

Thomas

Thomas Haigh

Current Director of the
Brontë Birthplace Committee

Experienced Marketing Coordinator skilled in digital marketing, graphic design, and event management. Passionate about creating impactful campaigns and enhancing brand visibility.

The skills I bring to the committee…

Cathy

Catherine Boyden

Current Director of the
Brontë Birthplace Committee

Born and raised in Thornton, I am the Manager of Thornton Community Centre and  Street Market. My mother, children and grandchildren live locally and support me in projects for improving Thornton. Lisa, my late great friend, started this project and I am determined to see it blossom for her.

The skills I bring to the committee…

Nigel West

Nigel West

Current Director of the
Brontë Birthplace Committee

Born in Leeds, educated at Leeds Grammar School / York University. Retired from IBM after 32 years as Project Executive. Family relationship to Arthur Bell Nicholls. Birthplace Patron & Mgt Committee.

The skills I bring to the committee…

Anna Morris

Anna Morris

I would bring expertise and passion to the role. I’m from Bradford and, as an avid reader and walker, love Brontë novels and locations. I’m skilled in fundraising, marketing, engagement and heritage.

The skills I bring to the committee…

Katharine Barnett

Katharine Barnett

My name is Katharine, I have 22 years of experience of creating and running businesses from development to HR to tea making! I have been involved in many organisations as a committee member.

The skills I bring to the committee…

Gillian Wilson

I was born in Bradford, and have lived locally to Thornton / in Thornton most of my life.   After obtaining a BA honours degree (History and English literature) from Liverpool University plus my teaching qualification, I wanted to return to Thornton and put down lifelong roots.  I started my first teaching job in Bradford in September 1995.  Throughout my teaching career, I have always been the history leader and the English lead due to my lifelong interest in these areas.  In 2008 I started additional work for the local education authority as a lead English teacher.   In 2015 I attained DfE SLE status (Senior Leader of Education.)  Since 2017, I have been Headteacher of St Oswald’s C of E Primary School in Bradford.  I have always had a passion for history – especially local history.  I was 11 years old when I first read Jayne Eyre – and I have been gripped by the Brontës ever since. 

The skills I bring to the committee…

Chris Raine

Christopher Raine

A Geordie by birth I was educated in the North East and qualified in Medicine at Newcastle upon Tyne University. Following training was appointed to Bradford Royal in 1986. I am currently working part-time as an ENT Consultant.

The skills I bring to the committee…

HalinaBr

Halina Kasperowicz

A multi-disciplined career encompassing: science, indexing & abstracting, computer programming & IT, education, training and management and now Chair of Red House Yorkshire Heritage Trust.

The skills I bring to the committee…