Joined the charity as a trustee

September 2025

Why did you choose to give your time and get involved with the charity?

The Forest is a national asset for our generations but also for those who follow. The Japanese coined the expression “shinrin-yoku”, or forest bathing, the concept being that a walk in the forest, surrounded by nature is a perfect way to de-stress and boost health and well-being. Relaxing and taking in the sights, sounds and smells  of the forest can lower blood pressure and improve mood. Who wouldn’t want to support that?

Q&A 

What expertise do you bring to the trustee role?

I’ve always thought it important to ‘give something back’, and it’s a privilege to be able to use my experience to help Heart of England Forest. I spent over 25 years in the corporate world, mostly at board level as Chief Financial Officer or Chief Operating Officer. I escaped the ‘rat race’ about ten years ago and despite knowing absolutely nothing about it, created a smallholding in rural Shropshire with pigs, sheep, chickens, geese and ducks! Despite the steep learning curve it was deeply rewarding. I also went back to university and took a history Masters and Doctorate. I have previously been the Finance Trustee at the Royal British Legion, and currently I am Treasurer and Trustee of Alzheimer’s Research UK and also on the Audit and Risk Committee of the Royal United Services Institute.

What aspect of the charity’s work interests you the most?

It’s proven science that forests act as significant carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide, and assisting the fight against global warming. The field of green and sustainable finance are evolving quickly and it will be important that the charity is making the most of the assets it has at its disposal.

How do you think the Heart of England Forest is making the most difference?

While the impact the charity has on global warming is real and valuable, the immediate benefits are through the provision of green spaces where children can play and families can spend some quality time in fresh air. All while providing a natural habitat for wildlife to thrive in of course.

What are the challenges facing the charity over the next 12 months?

The charitable space is highly competitive, and continuing to create a compelling reason to support the charity is key. As an environmental charity, it is important that we continue to champion the benefits of native forests in a world increasingly prone to misinformation and cynicism. 

What 3 words would you use to describe the work of the Forest?

Compelling, Ambitious, Posterity