Jackie Weaver, star of the viral online Handforth Parish Council meeting, has agreed to continue her relationship with Guernsey by becoming patron of Women in Public Life.
The decision follows her successful visit to the island in September, at the invitation of Women in Public Life, when she toured the island, gave inspirational talks in schools and entertained a packed audience at the Princess Royal Centre for Performing Arts.
As Chief Officer of Cheshire Association of Local Councils, Jackie Weaver is passionate about local democracy. She’s determined to use her accidental fame to encourage more people – particularly women and young people from all walks of life – to get involved in local democracy.
Since that infamous parish council meeting went viral in February this year, she has appeared regularly in the media, has her own podcast and has published her first book, “You Do Have The Authority Here – What Would Jackie Weaver Do?”.
Chair of Women in Public Life, Shelaine Green, says, ‘Jackie Weaver has 25 years’ experience as a champion of grassroots democracy so we’re thrilled that we will be able to tap into her expertise and moral support as our patron. Her visit in September was an absolute joy from start to finish and we are still following up with the women who were inspired by her.’
Jackie Weaver adds, ‘I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Guernsey, it is a wonderful island and my husband Stuart and I hope to return soon. I love seeing the energy and enthusiasm that Women in Public Life are putting into inspiring and supporting women in Guernsey to stand for public office. So I’m very happy become their patron and am looking forward to being part of their journey as they travel from strength to strength.’
The full story of Jackie Weaver’s visit to Guernsey can be found on the Women in Public Life website, womeninpubliclife.gg.
Pictured top: Shelaine Green, Chair of Women in Public Life & Jackie Weaver (photo by Jackson Chambers Photography)