Wells City Council announces new town clerk as long-serving Stephen Luck prepares to retire

Wells City Council has appointed a new town clerk as it prepares to bid farewell to Stephen Luck, who will retire in May 2025 after 28 years of service in various roles within the council.

Reflecting on his time at the council, Stephen Luck said: "I am looking forward to my retirement, after serving Wells for some time. My thanks go out to both those I have worked with, and my family who have and continue to support me. I am delighted in the appointment of the new town clerk and I know that I am leaving the council in safe and capable hands."

Councillor Stewart Cursley, chairman of the Finance and Council Matters Committee, praised the outgoing town clerk, saying: "We have had the privilege of having a capable and knowledgeable town clerk for a long time in Stephen Luck, and the council wishes him the very best of luck and health for his retirement."

Following a rigorous recruitment process, Wells City Council has appointed Haylee Wilkins as the new town clerk. With extensive experience in local government, she has worked in the local area throughout her career, previously serving as assistant CEO at Mendip District Council and more recently as devolution officer for Wells City Council.

Speaking about her appointment, Haylee Wilkins said: "I am delighted and honoured to be appointed as the new town clerk for Wells City Council, and excited to work with the knowledgeable and skilled staff and councillors to deliver excellent services to the community of Wells."

The appointment was confirmed at a Full City Council meeting on Thursday, 30 January 2025. The Right Worshipful Mayor, Councillor Jasmine Browne, welcomed the decision, saying: "We are delighted to appoint Haylee Wilkins as our new clerk and have every faith that she has the skill, experience and vision to lead the council into the next important phase. I believe I can speak for all councillors of Wells City Council in saying that we are very much looking forward to working with her."

Haylee Wilkins will take over the role as Wells City Council navigates a period of change and increased public service demand following the devolution of responsibilities from Somerset Council. Her appointment marks the start of a new chapter for the council as it continues to serve the community of Wells.