I grew up in a Methodist family and became a Local Preacher in 1981. A friend suggested I look at the advert for a new trustee for LWPT in 2016 and I joined the Board. I became Chair of Trustees in 2017 and handed over to my successor in 2025.

During my time as a Trustee, I have worked with three CEOs and have been involved in interviewing for a fourth! I balance my LWPT input with being the Circuit Tutor for Local Preachers in Training, assisting 10 preachers in their journey to full accreditation so far.

What are your earliest memories on your involvement with your church?

As I grew up in a Methodist family, I feel I always ‘went to church’, but I gave my life to Jesus in my late teens, about 60 years ago. I was a leader in the church youth club and a teacher in the Sunday School.

How were you first introduced to LWPT and why did you become a trustee?

I was aware of LPMA and LWPT as a trained Local Preacher from the early 1980s. Our church and Circuit financially helped LWPT, so I was aware of them.

When it was suggested that I apply to be a Trustee, my connection was quite close to the organisation, but it was a very helpful interview with the trustees and the CEO to appreciate that I could offer my past knowledge to help create a future direction for the Trust. When offered, I jumped at the chance.

What have been the major changes that you have seen in LWPT during your tenure as a trustee and what benefits have these changes brought?

LWPT is very different now to when I joined. The Trust was struggling to move away from its historical basis which had been indicative of life in the 20th century; it was not speaking into the 21st century.

There were activities that we were involved in that were restricting us financially from areas of work in which we wished to be involved. These have been resolved and new developments have been raised over the last couple of years.

Social media connectivity has grown from almost nothing to weekly information being posted; the grants process has created the alumni of people, willing to speak up for LWPT and this work will continue with the blending of ambassadors from all walks of life, complementing the alumni.

What have been the most rewarding experiences brought to you through your involvement with the charity?

Meeting a dedicated team of employees has always been rewarding, as my professional background has been in HR and people development. As I was involved in the recruitment of Ian Buchanan as CEO, it has been
satisfying to see the team grow in ability and scope of activity.

If it were possible, what would you now say to yourself on your first day as a trustee?

Why didn’t I do this before?

Why is it important for people to support LWPT right now?

Our organisation offers preachers and leaders of worship a wealth of support for their ministries, something that would benefit them and those that seek grants from us.

How do you feel you have developed personally from your experience as a trustee and what have you learned about yourself?

Working as a Trustee and helping to change the focus of LWPT has made me a little more robust in my thinking and given me a broader understanding of Christian life in the UK.

Do you have any plans on how to fill the extra time after your trusteeship comes to an end?

As if; I will have more time to devote to my existing activities; family, preaching, tutoring and discipling members of my local church.

 

Extracted from Ichthus newsletter Spring 2026