Newnham on Severn CBS Ltd
NoSCBS Ltd is a community benefit society with more than 200 shareholders, many of whom are active volunteers. It was formed in January 2019 with the aim of buying The George and re-establishing it as a community hub. Every year the society holds an AMM (Annual Members Meeting) to present the annual accounts to shareholders and elect new members to the management committee.
The Management Committee
Members of the Management Committee hold office for three years.
Co-opted members serve for one year only and must be formally elected at the next AMM.
Siobhan Smith (Chair)
A retired medical practitioner, Siobhan has lived in Newnham since 1999 and has been involved with The George from the beginning. She brings energy and enthusiasm to her role as Chair and a firm belief that when we work together, we can achieve so much more than when we struggle alone.
Lisa Soda (Secretary)
Lisa joined the committee just over a year ago, bringing her passion for community engagement and a wealth of diverse experience to the project. Her connection to Newnham is rooted in her work as a private counsellor, and she currently rents an office the top floor of the building.
Emma Simpson
Emma grew up in nearby Minsterworth and has always enjoyed living close to the river. A journalist working in public-sector communications, she joined the committee in 2022 and, although busy with family and other commitments, feels it valuable to be part of a community venture.
Anthony Brady
Born in Romford, Essex , Anthony has had a varied and eventful life which has included nursing, social work and a spell as a civil servant. Having survived a serious heart attack in 2017, he is enjoying life again – a committed communitarian and Roman Catholic, and a published author with nine books to his name.
Sarah Morris
Sarah Morris and her family have lived in Newnham for thirty years and she loves and values its wonderful community. She joined the committee in 2023, having previously helped with the renovation and redecoration of the building as a volunteer. She is a leading light in the Events Group and enjoys organising the Thursday evening talks, film and food nights and music events.
Nick Assirati
Originally from London, Nick moved to Newnham in 1993 to volunteer at Oaklands Park, one of the two local communities for learning-disabled adults run by Camphill Village Trust. After volunteering in several local community projects he is now an active member of The George committee, as well as the Events Group and maintenance team. Nick is a family man who loves music, rebuilding social capital and the Forest of Dean.
Steph Smith
Now retired, Steph comes from a background of acting and teaching drama and also worked as a speech therapist and counsellor. She joined the committee in early 2024 and is now an active member of the Events Group. A writer herself, Steph enjoys introducing poetry, creative writing and storytelling to a local audience and brings enthusiasm and energy to the team.
Jennie Walkley-Cox
Jennie has lived in Newnham for eleven years and joined the committee two years ago. She works at Camphill Village Trust delivering creative workshops to adults with learning disabilities. “I’m often to be found creating something or trying to learn a new craft. I love all that the village has to offer and it’s great to maintain and grow the incredible community we have here. The George is brilliant, and I feel really lucky to be a part of it!”