Our trustees are a real source of support and motivation for Wealden Volunteering. Their involvement is an essential part of maintaining and developing the services we offer.
Meet our trustees, who they are, along with a bit of background about each of them:
Ann Coad, Treasurer
I have worked as an IT project manager specialising in international finance systems. I then moved into the civil service, delivering innovative IT systems, particularly in identity verification. In the years before retirement, I worked to establish an IT profession in Government, a fascinating project making clear the career paths for IT professionals. I retired in 2021.
I have an interest in traditional English music and dance, and have 3 grandchildren nearby.
I joined what was then called Uckfield Volunteer Centre in 2021, and became treasurer in April 2022.
Jamie Keddie, Trustee
I work in the NHS helping build partnerships between healthcare services and local communities. I previously worked in the voluntary and community and social enterprise sector.
I love helping people and organisations see the benefits of volunteering to their local community.
Jane Sambrook, Trustee
Now retired, I worked in childcare for 36 years, as a qualified social worker and play therapist, and for over 20 years was a manager in a secure unit for young people.
I enjoy yoga, travelling abroad, cardmaking and manga art.
I have been involved with the organisation since Sept 2015, and currently I am an office volunteer at Wealden Volunteering, where I look after the membership scheme.
Karen Thorne, Trustee
I am an accountant and Finance Director at C. J. Thorne & Co. Ltd where I have worked for last 25 years, and in my spare time I am also Treasurer of Uckfield Rugby Club.
I have lived in Uckfield for nearly 30 years now and wanted to get more involved in the community and I volunteer at the Community fridge which is really rewarding.
I am looking really enjoying serving as a trustee and supporting Wealden Volunteering in whatever way I can.
Paul Latimer, Trustee
Now retired, my 38-year career consisted of various product, brand and marketing management roles, before I chose to specialise in the area of primary market research.
I’ve lived in Uckfield since 1997, and enjoy a range of hobbies and interests including genealogy, military history, and playing and watching sport.
I took on my first volunteering role in early 2024, before joining Wealden Volunteering, where I help with social media activity. I became a trustee in 2025.
Paul Sparks, Interim Chairman
I have lived in Uckfield with my wife Dorothy for over 30 years and following my retirement from Lloyds Bank, I have been actively involved with the community life of the town. I have served as both a Wealden, County, and Town Councillor for the Uckfield East ward.
I helped establish a Dementia Forum for Uckfield to improve the quality of life for those living with dementia and their carers and I am currently the Chairman. Also I have been involved with Uckfield U3A for many years.
In 2012, I helped to form a residents association for Manor Park & Hempstead Fields including a well used surgery car service. I’m also a Trustee for Uckfield PHAB club.
I enjoy most sports with keen interest in football.