28 August 2026
Before turning her focus to the local arts scene, Clare spent nearly three decades teaching a wide range of undergraduate and MA courses in English Language and Literature at the University of Bedfordshire, retiring early in 2019. Her deep expertise is backed by a rich academic background, including a BA (Joint Hons) in English and Medieval History from St Andrew\’s University and a PhD in Linguistics from Sheffield Hallam University.
As an established author and researcher, Clare has published a book exploring women in Parliament, devolved political institutions, the environmental movement, and the Church of England. She has also written numerous articles and book chapters analysing the work of contemporary authors, including Philip Pullman and Mark Haddon.
Today, she brings her critical eye and love for storytelling to Bedford’s bustling cultural landscape. Whether she is attending contemporary dance performances, music gigs, theatre productions, or art exhibitions, Clare is always on the lookout for brilliant local talent—especially the work of regional writers and poets.
Subscribe to our free daily email for our lead story each morning before we publish it anywhere else, plus the key Bedford Borough headlines from the last 24 hours – without having to log into social media.
