The Mayor’s Biography

Councillor Kate Knott, Mayor of Castle Point

I have been happily married to my husband, John, for nearly 40 years and we have two grown-up children and four grandchildren. Castle Point is very much home to me, having moved here from just within the Leigh borders 26 years ago. Belfairs Woodland and Daws Heath were an important part of my childhood and teenage years.

I have a lifelong passion for genealogy and history. This interest has led me to become an active member of the Hadleigh and Thundersley Community Archive Group, where I am involved in a community-based project to preserve the Echo pictorial negatives for the Borough. I have also participated in an archaeological excavation with AGES. Through these experiences I have developed a strong appreciation of Castle Point’s rich heritage and the many individuals and groups who have shaped the area into what it is today. 

Having spent the majority of my working life within Early Years education, I am passionate about ensuring that all young children have the best opportunity to thrive and receive the best possible start in life. I am committed to supporting Castle Point as a place where families can flourish, and to preserve our open green spaces, which play a vital role in the wellbeing of our community and for future generations.

I have been proud to serve as a People’s Independent Party Councillor for St James Ward since May 2024 and previously had the honour of serving as Deputy Mayor of Castle Point over the past year.

During my Mayoral year, I am pleased and privileged to support two chosen charities: STRM Support - Send the Right Message and the For Isla Foundation. Both charities provide invaluable support to children and their families facing a range of challenges, and I hope to raise awareness of their important work throughout my term of office. 

I am also grateful to the Reverend Mark Smeed of St James-the-Less Church in Hadleigh, who has kindly agreed to serve as my Chaplain during my Mayoral year.