A master gymnast, writer and animal physiotherapist has become the deputy leader of Bracknell Town Council.
A multi-talented individual has taken the reins as the deputy leader of Bracknell Town Council.
Donna Sidebotham, a Labour Party member representing the Harmans Water ward, was appointed deputy leader during a meeting on October 20.
In her new role, she will support Cllr Graham Firth (Labour, Bullbrook) as he leads the council, guiding its strategic direction.
Unlike Bracknell Forest Council, where decisions are mainly made by the leader and cabinet, the town council's power lies within its individual committees.
First elected in May 2023, Cllr Sidebotham is a long-time resident of Harmans Water. She is not only an animal physiotherapist and author of the memoir The Best Goodbye, which explores the pain of losing a pet, but also an international masters gymnast aiming to compete for Great Britain again in 2027.
Cllr Firth praised her community spirit, stating: “Donna has made a great impression in her first term, and I’m excited to work alongside her.”
Cllr Sidebotham expressed her gratitude for the appointment, saying: “I’m honoured to be elected as deputy leader. I will continue to advocate for Harmans Water while also campaigning for the best for our entire town.”
Her book launched last October at Pets Corner in Ascot, and she was featured in an interview with British Gymnastics, highlighting the joy gymnastics brings to participants.
Cllr Sidebotham succeeds Cllr Kathleen Nugent (Labour, Hanworth) as deputy leader.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
