Norcot Ward
About the Ward
The ward of Norcot is west of the town centre and is bordered by Kentwood (the far western ward), Battle (the inner western ward), Southcote and Tilehurst wards.
As with all wards, apart from smaller Mapledurham, it elects three councillors to Reading Borough Council. Elections since 2004 are held by thirds, with elections in three years out of four.
These Councillors are currently, in order of election: Graeme Hoskin, Jo Lovelock and Debs Absolom.
Meet the Councillors
Debs Absolom
Jo Lovelock
I was born in Reading and have two grown up children and four grandchildren.
I am a retired special needs teacher.
My hobbies include swimming, reading and socialising with friends and family.
I was first elected to represent Norcot ward in 1986, being re-elected in 1990, 1994, 1997, 2001, 2004, 2008, 2012 and 2016. My current term of office runs until 2020.
I have been Chair of the Housing Committee (1988 to 1993), Chair of Equal Opportunities and Personnel (1993 to 1995), Chair of Community Action (1995 to 1996), Chair of Education (Lead Councillor under the new Council structures) from 1996 to 2004, Deputy Leader from 1996 to 2008, and also Lead Councillor for Corporate Affairs from 2004 to 2008. I was Leader of the Council from 2008 to 2010 and again from 2011 to the present time.
I am also a director of the Reading UK Community Interest Company and am the Council’s representative on the Local Enterprise Partnership Forum