Penrith Town Council has announce the appointment of Annabel Candler as its new Events Officer, in what the town council has described as “an exciting new chapter for Penrith’s events programme”.
Following the town council delivery of the 2025 Penrith May Day, the Council created the new 30 hours a week £34,628 a year in-house role to organise and deliver Penrith May Day 2026 and develop a wider programme of events for the town.
The town council said “Feedback from residents has shown a strong appetite for the Council to continue delivering and expanding town events”.
Annabel brings a track record of delivering events in Penrith. She has managing through her events business the Penrith Sparkle (Christmas Light Switch-On) for a number of years for Penrith BID with the support of £5,000 grant funding from the town council.
She has also being behind other town centre events such as ‘Penrith on a Plate’ food festival and ‘Penrith’s Halloween Festival’. In her new role with the Council, Annabel will take the lead on Penrith May Day 2026 and support a wide range of other community-focused celebrations throughout the year funded by the town council.
Val Bowen, Chair of Penrith Town Council & Penrith Mayor, said: "We are so pleased to welcome Annabel to the Council. This appointment puts our vision for the town as a creative and cultural place where quality of life is enhanced by a range of vibrant festivals, events and projects firmly into action.
“Her experience and creativity will help us deliver engaging events that reflect the community’s interests, bring people together, and enhance the cultural life of Penrith.”
Dan Harding, Vice Chair of Penrith Business Improvement District, added:
"Annabel has delivered the Sparkle event for Penrith BID exceptionally well, and I have no doubt she will excel in her new role at the Council.
“It’s an exciting time for the town, and I look forward to seeing the Council build on its success of Penrith May Day 2025 with Annabel now in post.”
Annabel is keen to hear ideas from the community and encourages residents to share suggestions for future events. Anyone with thoughts or ideas can contact her directly at eo@penrithtowncouncil.gov.uk
Then select "Add to Home Screen"
