I am passionate about helping to bring diverse sectors of the community together to create mutually supportive sustainable local food system. I want to work with others to participate in building our community’s food skills and resilience, adapting to climate change and strengthening the local economy.

I spent most of my professional life as a programme manager working on community development for international charities, as well as national initiatives. For example, I Coordinated Living Sustainably in Dorset, ran the Jurassic Coast Earth Festival and founded Turn Lyme Green. I co-manage the family farm on which I grew up.

Having worked in schools for ten years I’m very interested in the health and wellbeing of children. I’m deeply committed to several of Bridport’s community food initiatives including the Edible Gardens project in two primary schools, the Glut Stall and Sustainable Bridport.

As an organic market gardener I’m passionate about producing nutritious food in a sustainable way. Working with Bridport Food Matters to help increase access to good food for everyone in our community, and grow our local food economy, is very exciting.

I believe in the transformative nature of growing, cooking and sharing food.  Growing food in public spaces is not only beneficial in terms of the food produced but it also fosters an understanding of the issues surrounding food production.

I was a founder member of Transition Town Bridport, now sustainable Bridport, and am a trustee of Dorset climate Action Network. I think local food is very important to increase the resilience of our town. Healthier food should be available for everyone at a price they can afford.

I have always been an ethical caterer, passionate about collaborating with producers and growers. My involvement in several sustainability projects includes studying the connections between local growers and the £30 billion outdoor events industry, highlighting the immense potential for boosting local economies, improving health, and reducing food miles. 

Before moving to Dorset I worked as a primary school headteacher in Buckinghamshire but many local families will know me from Hooke Court Nursery School or Watercleaves. Now retired, I am still passionate about the happiness and well being of children. I have always been keen to foster children’s confidence, curiosity and creativity through hands-on, practical activities like growing and cooking food together.

I’ve been lucky enough to meet amazing local food producers and chefs through volunteering with smallholders, helping out at the weekly surplus Food Stall in town and assisting with the Young Cooks’ marquee at Bridport’s annual Food Festival.

I’ve joined Bridport Food Matters because I strongly believe everyone in our community should be able to enjoy affordable, healthy, nutritious food together.