Tess Hart MBE, DL

London born, Tess has lived in Cumbria for 50 years Mother of three and grandmother to five, she became involved in charity fundraising and volunteering while caring for her special needs daughter, campaigning for Special Educational Needs Provision, working on the NSPCC Full Stop campaign, and participating in annual NSPCC events.

A trustee of Carlisle MENCAP and Crossroads (Caring for Carers), Tess was honoured with an MBE for services to the community in Carlisle in 2012.

Tess’s 25 year association with Cumbria Woman of the Year began as nominee. She became Vice Chair and, ultimately, Chair. Separately, she has organised four fundraising balls, Roaring 20s (supporting the Crossroads charity), Mardi Gras (Eden Valley Hospice), Heart & Soul (Cumberland Infirmary), and Bollywood (Carlisle MENCAP.)

Tess was consort to the High Sheriff and appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2014. She lives in Longtown near the English/Scottish border. Her passions include travel, gardening and cooking.