Why did you decide to join Eynsham Parish Council?
My wife, Katy, spent some time as a Parish Councillor. Once she had stepped down, we often said that I should take her place one day. Other commitments made that difficult until recently, but that ‘one day’ has now arrived.
What do you hope to achieve by being a Councillor?
To play a part in making sensible, pragmatic decisions that balance the conservation of the village’s important heritage with its ongoing evolution, so that it remains an attractive, community-focused village for generations to come.
How was the process of joining/being co-opted?
Remarkably painless! I submitted an application form, attended the following full council meeting, and was co-opted that evening.
What issues do you care about most?
I care a lot about both sustainability and wellbeing. Sustainability touches on a lot of things – issues related to climate change, travel, energy and water security and so on. Wellbeing covers lots of things, too: access to effective health provision; access to open spaces that support activity and exercise, and more.
How long have you lived in Eynsham?
Since early 2008. I moved to Oxfordshire for a job in summer 2000 and lived in Oxford itself initially. Having grown up in rural Bedfordshire, I was keen to put down proper roots outside of the city, within reach of the countryside, and Eynsham fitted the bill perfectly.
What do you enjoy about Eynsham life?
To me, Eynsham is a ‘Goldilocks’ village: not too big, not too small, but just the right size, with great amenities, great community, and beautiful countryside all around. It’s proving to be a perfect place to raise our family.
Do you work?
I’m a publisher at Oxford University Press, where I’ve worked since first moving to Oxfordshire. I also do a bit of (publishing-related) university teaching as something of a sideline; and also co-author a student textbook with another Eynsham resident.
How do you like to spend your spare time?
I developed a moderate obsession with gardening during the pandemic so always like to have some kind of garden-based project on the go. But I also enjoy simply getting outdoors with my wife and daughters. Nothing really beats a Sunday afternoon wander to the Fishponds or out along the Wharf Stream Way to the Thames.
Email Jon on jon.crowe@eynsham-pc.gov.uk.