Kempston Mayor finds more time for community life after retirement move

When Steve and Terri moved to their new home at The Newells in Kempston last year, they weren’t planning to slow down. In fact, they’ve found that having fewer jobs to worry about at home has given them more freedom to focus on the things they enjoy and the community they care about.

Steve, 66, was elected Mayor of Kempston in May. A long-serving town councillor, he is also Chair of Bedford Men in Sheds and, before retiring, spent 33 years working for the BBC.

Steve has a busy diary of mayoral engagements, council meetings and community activities, but says simplifying life at home has made it easier to stay active and involved.

“People often assume that moving into a retirement community means slowing down, but that’s been the exact opposite of our experience,” Steve said.

“We moved to The Newells because we wanted to simplify life and plan ahead for the future. What we’ve actually found is that it has given us more time to focus on the things we enjoy and the causes we care about.

“There is no garden maintenance, no household jobs constantly demanding attention and so much on your doorstep. It frees up your time and energy for other things.”

A move made for the future

Steve and Terri, herself a former Mayor of Kempston and fellow town councillor, moved to The Newells in May 2025.

The idea of apartment living first appealed to them after visiting one of their granddaughters while she was studying in London.

“We were totally taken with the idea,” Steve said. “She was in a beautiful apartment, and it was really convenient and easy. We could immediately see the appeal. For us, the decision wasn’t about downsizing, it was about simplifying life and making the most of it.”

From their south-facing apartment overlooking Kempston, Steve and Terri continue to be very much part of local life.

Steve said: “Being a town councillor and now Mayor is about helping people and trying to make things better for the local community.

“I’ve always believed that if you can contribute something positive, then you should. Kempston is a fantastic place to live and it’s a real privilege to serve the town as Mayor.”

Terri added: “Steve has always thrown himself into community life. Whether it’s through the council, Men in Sheds or helping local organisations, he’s always looking for ways to bring people together and support others.

“Moving to The Newells hasn’t changed that. If anything, it’s given us both more freedom to stay involved.”

Share: