The Canvey Neighbourhood Board has appointed Steve Bish as its new Chair, bringing more than two decades of experience in sport, education and community partnership work to the role. He takes over from outgoing Interim Chair Kate Willard OBE.
Steve grew up in Essex and represented Great Britain as a professional badminton player for several years, competing internationally. After a successful sporting career Steve carried his passion for sport into his professional life and has now worked in sport and education for more than 20 years.
At a local level, Steve founded and continues to manage the Castle Point and Rochford School Sport Partnership, based at The Deanes School in Benfleet. The partnership supports 52 schools with physical activity, PE, and school sport, and has developed strong, long‑standing relationships with schools across Canvey Island, community organisations, the local councils and wider public sector partners.
In addition to his local work, he has held national roles with the Youth Sport Trust, gaining experience in large‑scale project management and national programme delivery.
Speaking about the his appointment, Steve said: “I am delighted to be the new Chair of the Canvey Neighbourhood Board and commit to being dedicated and passionate about ensuring that every penny of the £20 million investment makes a positive difference to Canvey Island. I will use my experience, connections and personal skills to continue to drive this project with the support of a fantastic Board and team at Castle Point Borough Council.
“This investment provides us with the resource and opportunity to bring together the community and ensure local investment works for local people. From the start of this process, consultation with the community and genuine engagement with all parts of Canvey society have been at the heart of this work, and I am committed to ensuring this continues as delivery progresses.”