Our People

Achieving Together

As a community led charitable organisation, we couldn’t undertake our work in protecting and enhancing the natural landscape and supporting and promoting the businesses within the Duddon catchment and estuary without our amazing team of trustees and volunteers. Our dedicated volunteers help to deliver projects across the Duddon Valley ranging from nature projects to community focuessed ones all spearheaded and supported by team of expert trustees.

Jackie Lancaster

Chair

Jackie Lancaster’s career spans hospitality and tourism, from opening and managing restaurants and hotels to implementing EPOS and PMS systems. She served as Sales & Revenue Manager for Langdale Hotel and Brimstone. Jackie and her husband run Lancaster & Lancaster, a consultancy providing business support through the Chamber of Commerce and Enterprising Cumbria. Their projects include developing a walking app for the Norman Nicholson Society and an E-bike infrastructure report for Allerdale Council. Jackie holds an MA in Implementing Business Practices in Management from Lancaster University and a Revenue Management certificate from Cornell University. She is a Duddon Parish Councillor, Director for Broughton Community Services CIC, and has developed a community resilience plan with Duddon Support Group. Jackie also volunteers at Broughton Tourist Information Centre, promoting the Western Lakes and Coast. Her extensive experience in business, community development, and tourism underpins her leadership as Chair.

Shelley Hackett

Treasurer and Secretary

Shelley Hackett holds a BSc (Hons) in Zoology and Botany, with a special interest in mammals and animal behavior. She began her career as a Medical Representative for Parke Davis in Greater Manchester, later joining Roche Pharmaceuticals and Syntex Pharmaceuticals, where she became Training Manager. In this role, she trained sales teams in communication, therapeutic areas, and pharmacology, and produced training manuals explaining clinical trials. Shelley then moved to the private sector as a senior consultant in a medical sales, training, and recruitment company, eventually becoming a director and helping the company achieve significant growth. After leaving to raise her children, she became a school governor and a qualified hockey coach, running U14 teams. Currently, Shelley is a trustee for the Joseph & Eleanor Gunson Almshouse Trust (Ulpha) and the Browfoot Room (Ulpha Village Hall), where she has managed a recent building project. Her diverse experience in science, business, and community service makes her an effective Treasurer and Secretary.

Gillian Browne

Trustee

Gillian Browne graduated from the University of Glasgow Veterinary School and moved to the Duddon Valley over four decades ago. Working alongside her husband in a local veterinary practice, she developed strong ties with the community, especially local farmers. Gillian is deeply involved in rural life, serving as Chair of the Broughton and Millom Agricultural Show’s Handicraft and Produce committee. She is an active member and events secretary for the Lakeland Orienteering Club and participates in Thwaites WI. Her passion for wildlife, nature, and climate action is reflected in her membership with the Cumbria Wildlife Trust supporters’ group, which meets regularly in Thwaites. Gillian’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement is further demonstrated through her trustee role at Sustainable Duddon, where she continues to advocate for environmental awareness and action. Her broad involvement in local organizations highlights her dedication to fostering community spirit, supporting rural traditions, and promoting environmental stewardship throughout the Duddon Valley.

Adrianne Calsey

Trustee

Adrianne Calsey is a retired scientist with nearly 30 years of experience in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and nuclear industries. Her professional work focused on preparing environmental assessments and advancing projects to improve environmental performance. Adrianne has consistently promoted environmental awareness and action, both in her career and through community involvement. She is a member of the steering group for the Barrow to Esk Active Travel (BEAT Route) project, which encourages sustainable transportation. Adrianne also serves as a councillor for Millom Without Parish Council. Her community engagement extends to running a playgroup at Thwaites Village Hall, organizing the annual Thwaites gala, and participating in other hall events. Additionally, she is a member of the Millom and Broughton Agricultural Show committee. Adrianne’s blend of scientific expertise and grassroots involvement underscores her commitment to environmental improvement and community development, making her a valuable asset to the organizations she serves.

John Sutton

Trustee

John Sutton was born and raised in Cumbria. After an early career in the local tourist industry, he spent 35 years as a Civil Servant, primarily in Whitehall, specializing in IT projects, cyber security, and large-scale procurement. He also developed skills in policy and funding models. Upon retirement, John returned to Cumbria, eager to contribute locally. For the past decade, he has volunteered with the National Trust at Lake District sites, focusing on gardening, ground management, and leading tours at Force Crag mine mill. He volunteers with the Hardknott Forest Project and participates in village litter picking and balsam bashing. John is a member of the South Lakes Orchard Group and runs annual apple grafting courses with Sustainable Duddon. As Secretary and trustee for The Hill (Millom) village hall, he has overseen major improvements, including installing an audio-visual system and renewable energy solutions. John is also involved in the local brass band and beekeeping, reflecting his commitment to community and environmental initiatives.