Cathie and Scott Gibbens, both graduates of Edge Hill University, have etched their names into local history by becoming the first married couple to complete all four mayoral roles in Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council. Their journey, which began with a chance conversation over pancake recipes on campus more than 30 years ago, culminated in Cathie's inauguration as Mayor in August, following Scott's term in 2023/24. The couple, who celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary this year, have also served as deputy mayor, consort, and deputy consort, a feat never before achieved by a married couple in the borough.
From Pancake Recipes to Civic Leadership
The Gibbens' path to the mayoralty was sparked by a shared commitment to environmental causes. "We became involved because of two local environmental issues that really mattered to us," Cathie explained. "We wanted to protect our community, so we decided it was worth becoming councillors." Their activism helped block a proposed national rail freight interchange and they continue to campaign against housing development on a cherished local beauty spot.
As Mayor, Cathie represents the borough at civic events, from welcoming schoolchildren to the council chambers to opening new businesses and supporting conservation projects. "It really is a privilege to wear the chains of office," she said. "My sister flew over from America to surprise me at the Mayor Making ceremony and my fellow councillors said such wonderful things. It was a very special day."
Championing Local Causes
During her year in office, Cathie aims to champion local businesses, celebrate community achievements, and support two charities close to her heart: the Hinckley District Poppy Appeal, in memory of her two brothers who served in the RAF, and the Concordia Theatre Project 2030, which secures the future of the volunteer-run community theatre.
Having served as Scott's mayoress during his tenure, Cathie was prepared for the role's demands. "It was a real privilege, but incredibly busy. Most of the stress was making sure we had the right clothes, the chains and knew where we were parking. Scott has been wonderfully supportive."
A Campus Romance Begins
The couple's story started at Edge Hill University, where they met through mutual friends. Cathie, who earned a BA (Hons) English (QTS) in 1995, and Scott, who completed a BSc (Hons) Geography with IT in 1993, first connected when Cathie phoned her dad for a pancake recipe. "When I put the phone down, a voice behind me said, 'You didn't ask me, did you? No, I wouldn't know how to make them,'" Cathie recalled. Neither imagined then that this light-hearted exchange would lead to a lifelong partnership.
Their student years were filled with memorable moments. Cathie played hockey in goal and badminton for Edge Hill, while Scott spent much of his time in the Geography department and famously abseiled down Lancashire Hall. Both worked in the University's libraries, including the then-new library with its revolving entrance and rolling book stacks. "We actually worked really well together, although no one believed we didn't get up to mischief in the rolling stacks," Cathie laughed.
Building Careers on an Edge Hill Foundation
The close-knit campus community left a lasting impression. "We loved Edge Hill because you could go into Ken's Bar and see pretty much everyone you knew. It was a great campus for walking around and getting to know people," Cathie said.
After graduating, Cathie spent seven years teaching before building a successful career in digital product development, working with education technology providers, the Department for Education, the National Apprenticeship Service, and the Careers Service. Scott also pursued a career in digital services, and at one point the couple even worked for the same company.
One particularly memorable moment early in Cathie's teaching career brought her back to Edge Hill. During an Ofsted-era inspection, the lead inspector turned out to be her former lecturer, Sonja Oyens. "I'll never forget her seeing me and shouting my name across the staffroom," Cathie recalled. "She observed my teaching and my ICT plans before saying, 'Well, I can't fault your teaching because you went to Edge Hill and I taught you.' Then we spent ages talking about Edge Hill."
Lifelong Learning
Reflecting on her journey, Cathie credits her time at Edge Hill for laying the foundation for everything that followed. "Every part of my career journey has been built on what I learned before and what I learned on the job. Learning really is for life."
The couple's achievement is a testament to their dedication to public service and their enduring partnership. As they mark 30 years of marriage, they also celebrate a unique place in the borough's history, inspiring others with their story of love, learning, and civic duty.
