Sarah worked in the rail industry for 28 years, on projects including the £7billion investment programme for the upgrade of the West Coast Mainline, and developing and building the new high-speed rail line from London to the West, High Speed 2.

While she was still working, she was involved in running Tilehurst Swimming Club, setting up and subsequently chairing the committee for a number of years. Since taking early retirement in 2015, she has undertaken a diverse range of voluntary roles in Reading, developing a good understanding of the challenges faced by charities against a backdrop of budget cuts and ever increasing demand for their services by the diverse community. She currently volunteers regularly for Smart Works Reading, Launchpad, RISC World Shop and Reading Film Theatre.