These are the members of our board.
Peter Donaldson

Peter Donaldson (Chair)

Peter has been professionally involved with books since 1978 when he and his wife Sarah founded Red Lion Books, Colchester’s award-winning independent book shop. He has always believed that books and reading play a hugely important part in building a healthy and happy society. He is proud to be Chair of Essex Book Festival whose… Read more »

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Sade Fadipe

Sade is a published children’s author and educationist. Her picture book fascination was ignited by Sir Quentin Blake’s visit to a school where she taught in the early 90s. Her passion for literacy enhancement initiatives and in giving back to society, led to her conceptualizing and convening CALFE – a Children and Authors’ annual Fanfare…. Read more »

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Tony Fisher

Tony Fisher is a writer and BBC broadcaster. When he’s not behind the mic he’s tapping away on the keyboard or interviewing guests on the art of the written word.
He’s hosted many events for the Essex Book Festival and has a passion for promoting reading among young people, starting with his own children.

Jim MacDonald

Jim MacDonald

A career in finance might appear an unlikely background for a lover of books; although, government circulars do have a degree of intrigue! Jim brings his professional experience and enthusiasm for books to the board. A wide reader, he enjoys recommendations of The Times and Independent and keeps a keen eye on the Booker Prize.

Camilla Shestopal

Camilla Shestopal

Camilla is passionate about books, being involved in publishing throughout her career.  She has been involved in selling rights in all areas of publishing on authors and children’s brands and formerly was a director at Peters, Fraser & Dunlop focusing on Estates to bring well-known names of the past back into the public consciousness.  She now runs her own agency called Shesto Literary.

Pat Gaudin

Pat Gaudin

Pat loves books, has belonged to her book group for over 20 years, and has attended the Festival since its inception. A career in public relations/communications, most recently as an independent consultant in the local public sector across East Anglia, London, Hertfordshire; lecturer on PR degree and diploma courses; Director of Purple CIC; Trustee of Theatre Arts Action Trust (TAAT); and member of Chelmsford Mildmay Rotary.