The Deputy Mayor of Tunbridge Wells

Councillor Astra Birch 2026-27.

Astra grew up in the Midlands spa town of Droitwich, surrounded by a large extended family. After graduating from the University of Worcester with a degree in English Language and Drama, she relocated to the local area 12 years ago. Today, Astra lives in Pembury with her husband, Joe, and their two young children, River and Ivy. They are proud to call Pembury home, having been welcomed with open arms by a wonderful community that feels like family.

Professionally, Astra began her career in marketing before returning to her family’s financial services business. She qualified as a Mortgage Adviser in 2018 and subsequently opened a new branch in Sevenoaks. Following the birth of her children, she transitioned to a part-time role, enjoying the flexibility that the family business affords.

Astra has served as a Pembury Parish Councillor since 2022. As Chair of the Parish Council Events Committee, she very hands on, frequently spotted in a high-vis vest helping to run the village's four major annual events. Beyond her council work, Astra sits on the Board of the Chamber of Commerce, actively networking to support and champion the local business community.

Astra is also the author of “Money & You,” a series of educational children’s books designed to teach school-aged children the fundamentals of personal finance, including banking, borrowing, and budgeting. She is fiercely passionate about improving financial literacy for the next generation.

Outside of her busy professional and civic life, Astra and Joe (who owns a gym in Sevenoaks) enjoy keeping fit together whenever their children allow. As a family, they love exploring the Pembury countryside and holidaying in Devon.