The historic charity has appointed its first CEO in a move to both modernise the organisation and also improve its operations.

The charity, which can trace its origins back to the 14th century, has recruited Jed Ramsay to the new post. The new post will incorporate the role of clerk when the current clerk retires after over a decade of service.

Ellie Dickins, Constable for the Town and Manor, said, “I’m very pleased to have recruited Jed into the role. He brings experience of managing land, rivers and property both locally and in Cambridge.”

The new appointment is part of an overall strategy to improve the function of the charity and also make it more open. Ellie Dickins added, “Town and Manor own and manage over 300 acres of land, river and property with the aim of benefitting the local community and wildlife. We would like our work to be more visible to local residents and expect this appointment to help achieve this.”

The well known annual and unique festival in Hungerford known as Hocktide, which can be traced back to medieval times, is run by Town and Manor. It involves a series of traditional events including an Ale Tasting and the Constable’s Parade.

Ellie said, “We are a traditional organisation with a huge amount of history so we work to maintain this sense of the past whilst balancing it with the demands of the modern world.”

Jed’s career to date has included many years working on the River Kennet for the Environment Agency and then leading an organisation similar to the Town and Manor in Cambridge. Jed said, “I’m very pleased to be working for the Town and Manor. In addition to the land such as Hungerford Common and the Croft, the charity owns 4.5 miles of chalk stream fishing and the Town Hall itself. I’m looking forward to meeting the people of Hungerford and my door will always be open to discuss their concerns.”

If you would like to contact Jed Ramsay please email him at [email protected]