Samantha Haywood has supported us for the past 18 months, and Sam’s support, guidance and honesty has been invaluable.

As a newly appointed Chief Officer, Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, and not from a clerking background, I was keen to carry out a full financial review including processes, governance, procurement etc, and commissioned the services of LGRC Associates Ltd, and Sam joined the team.

The Town Council have a clear vision of changes they wanted to see, which has included new technology, and ensuring we get the best out of existing systems, including RBS, SAGE Payroll etc, and Sam’s knowledge and experience has really helped drive this forward.

Sam quickly got the business-as-usual activities under control, ensuring we were quickly following the Financial Regulations and our Scheme of Delegation. In addition, as part of the financial review, Sam has identified areas of improvements to ensure we follow due process and get value for money, reviewing all bank accounts, utility providers, expense process, financial policies etc – and has helped limit the risk to the organisation.

Each month Sam reported on findings, and created a comprehensive action log, which we reviewed and agreed on to take forward, some of which were quick wins and other items have taken longer to implement, taking decisions to Council, process changes, and training of staff.
Sam is incredibly hard working and flexible, being onsite when needed, and ensures that agenda item and supporting documents are prepared well in advance of a Council or committee meeting.

II have thoroughly enjoyed working with Sam, and appreciate her help and support especially as we have gone through some difficult, but worthwhile, changes, and are emerging as a stronger and robust Council, focused on delivering for our residents – this journey would not have been possible without the support of LGRC Associates Ltd, and Sam!

Mark Hopkins

Chief Officer/Clerk/RFO
Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council
October 2024

When our RFO informed us that she had accepted a new position as the CEO with a different Council, we were equally delighted at her success and horrified at the prospect of how we would manage without her.

At this point, the anxiety and stress of worrying how you will cope managing your own job as well making sure at least the bare minimum is done to keep the finances in order is immense.

Finding the right person to support me through this was an imperative, so I had no hesitation whatsoever in contacting LGRC for help. There was one person I wanted. Having known Louise for a number of years I was confident her skills, knowledge and expertise were what was needed and I haven’t been disappointed. Not only has Louise expertly stepped in as our RFO, she has brough invaluable insight in supporting us through the challenges of recruiting a permanent replacement.

I cannot thank Louise enough for the way she has provided me with support and reassurance and if there is one piece of advise I can give to any other Clerk or Chairman who unexpectedly finds themselves needing expert support, do not delay, hesitate or dither, pick up the phone and get the help you need in place as quickly as possible, the cost of not doing so will be much much higher if you don’t.

Andy Jeffrey

Town Clerk
Godalming Town Council
November 2024

Karen arrived to sort out a few grievances and stayed for over a year!

She is probably a bit of a Marmite  person, she upset a few Councillors along the way but gained a lot of respect from others.

You could not argue with her knowledge and understanding of the council system, something we hadn’t seen a lot of for the last 4 years.

She worked hard while in the office ,in her hotel and at home during the weekends. Always at the end of the phone when needed.

I found her very supportive in my two roles as head of Personnel and the mayor, and I will miss her.

Karen found us a new Town Clerk and has left  a lot ready to make her transition easier we can only thank her again.

The office staff will miss her friendly ways and all wish her every happiness in  her next assignment.

Ros Lester

Mayor
Wallingford Town Council
September 2025

Professional Testimonial for Sarah Goodman, Project Manager
 
It is with genuine pleasure that I share my professional experience working with and for Sarah Goodman over the past 27 years.
 
From our very first interaction, I was impressed by Sarah’s unwavering professionalism, meticulous attention to detail, and the authentic care she brought to every project.  Throughout our collaboration, nothing was ever too much trouble—every query, no matter how small, was always answered promptly and thoroughly.
 
Exceptional Project Planning and Management
 
Sarah’s approach to cost-effective planning and project management has consistently impressed me. She is adept at competitive procurement, to ensure that projects remain within budget without compromising on quality. Her expertise extends to working seamlessly with all trades, and she is known for her ability to maintain tight timescales and budgetary management.
 
From concepts and meticulously crafted planning to sourcing reliable tradespeople and overseeing groundworks, Sarah offers a full project management service. She handles every stage of the process, including navigating building regulations, with confidence and transparency.
 
Clear Communication and Client-Centred Service
 
One of the aspects I have most valued in working with Sarah is her clear and concise communication. At every stage, she ensures transparency, making me feel that client needs and concerns were always prioritised. Her dedication and expertise are evident in the consistently successful outcomes she delivers.
 
Reliability and Excellence in Delivery
 
I would have no hesitation in recommending Sarah Goodman to anyone seeking reliability, excellence, and a personal touch.  My experience has been wholly positive, and I look forward to working together again in the future.

David Wheeler

MRICS, MISVA (Building Surveyor)

November 2025