Wear Rivers Trust

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Staff Members

Get to know the professionals at Wear Rivers Trust who drive our work. Select each staff profile to learn more about their professional background, qualifications and expertise.

Kirstie Hutchinson

Chief Executive Officer

Paul Atkinson

Deputy Chief Executive Officer

Mark Davinson

Head of Programmes

Karen Stewart

Trust Development Manager

Jack Butlin

Head of Biodiversity & Engagement

James Dodsworth

Head of Nature Based Solutions & Green Engineering

Tam Mayor

Senior Catchment Officer

Katie Hook

Senior Communications Officer

Jack Rivers

Senior Education, Wellbeing & Inclusion Officer

Philip Parker

Senior Environmental Education Officer

Mike Hill

Senior Agriculture Officer

Daniel Rutland

Volunteer & Engagement Officer

Jon Digby

Sustainable Agriculture Officer

Simona Ackers Johnson

Biodiversity & Woodlands Project Officer

Heidi Kynoch

Nature Based Solutions Project Officer

Cat Jarman

Project Officer

Claire Dodds

Hydrological Project Officer

Helen Richardson

Administration Officer

Cameron Curry

SuDS+ Monitoring Support Officer

Hannah Clow

Education Support Officer

Board of Trustees

Meet the dedicated individuals who provide strategic guidance and oversight for our organisation. Click their profiles to explore the skills and perspectives our trustees bring to the Trust.

Trust Ambassador

We are delighted to welcome Janice Baker as our Trust Ambassador.

Her passion for the environment helps raise awareness and inspire communities to protect the River Wear.

Hear what she has to say

Kirstie Hutchinson

Chief Executive Officer 

kirstie.hutchinson@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

As Chief Executive Officer of Wear Rivers Trust, I bring a financial and strategic background to help the organisation thrive. My focus is on governance, partnerships, and long-term sustainability, ensuring the Trust is in the strongest position to deliver its mission of protecting and enhancing the River Wear and its catchment. While our dedicated staff lead the delivery of projects on the ground, I concentrate on building resilience, strengthening relationships, and guiding growth. I am passionate about ensuring the Trust continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the River Wear and its wider catchment.

Paul Atkinson

Deputy Chief Executive Officer 

paul.atkinson@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

I have worked for Wear Rivers Trust since 2016 having previously worked for Tyne Rivers Trust and the Environment Agency. My background is in freshwater ecology and I have a good grounding in habitat assessment and practical river restoration. I am passionate about improving our rivers and working with urban and rural communities to enact positive change for people and wildlife. I enjoy bringing scientific reasoning to managing river ecosystems and finding solutions to river issues that utilise the catchment management approach. I believe in putting river processes at the heart of integrated landscape management for sustainability and looking to nature based solutions to restore natural processes, improve water quality and restore our rivers.

Mark Davinson

Head of Programmes

mark.davinson@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

My role at Wear Rivers Trust combines two of my favourite things community development and the environment. I’ve been involved in my local community for 35 years in various ways including sports, schools and heritage. I previously had a volunteer role with the trust on my local watercourse the Stanley/Twizell Burn. At WRT I have a dual role. Working with residents on a sustainable drainage project (slowing water to prevent flooding while creating community benefit) is my main job. I also have a management position where I’m responsible for ensuring staff work together effectively and projects are delivered within budget.

Karen Stewart

Trust Development Manager

karen.stewart@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

I work closely with our corporate partners and key stakeholders, building strong relationships that help make a real difference. I enjoy finding new and creative ways for businesses and organisations to get involved and support our work. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me outdoors: mountain biking, bagging Munros, or exploring the wild wonderful landscapes in Scotland.

Jack Butlin

Head of Biodiversity & Engagement

jack.butlin@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

I joined the Trust in January 2023 after completing an MSci in Ecology and Conservation at Lancaster University. My research included working with the IUCN on illegal cacti trade and using camera traps to study scavengers at Creag Meagaidh NNR. Since graduating, I’ve worked across the conservation sector, including developing How to be a Young North East Naturalist for the Natural History Society of Northumbria. I’m a keen birdwatcher and wildflower enthusiast who also enjoys cooking and playing football in my spare time.

James Dodsworth

Head of Nature Based Solutions & Green Engineering

james.dodsworth@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

I joined the Trust in early 2023 with a background in engineering and experience working with vulnerable adults, teaching gardening and conservation skills. I’m a keen birdwatcher and love nothing more than exploring the wilds of the North East with my dog, watching wildlife. Having also worked at an SSSI Nature Reserve, I’m a strong advocate for protecting and restoring the local environment through Nature-Based Solutions. I’m proud to combine my engineering background and passion for wildlife to help the trust achieve its commitments to the Wear catchment.

Tam Mayor

Senior Catchment Officer

tam.mayor@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

With a lifelong love of nature and the outdoors, I’ve meandered my way through the horticulture, education and community sectors and landed with the Wear Rivers Trust in April 2024. I work as a Senior Catchment Officer hosting the Wear Catchment Partnership: this is a wide spectrum of organisations who collaborate at a catchment scale for the benefit of rivers, landscapes, people and wildlife. At my happiest outside, I love nothing more than pottering in my garden and allotment, or pulling on my walking boots and heading off into the hills.

Katie Hook

Senior Communications Officer

katie.hook@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

I joined Wear Rivers Trust in April 2024 after four years of working in a primary school. Since then, I’ve loved inspiring young people to connect with rivers, nature and the world around them. I have now stepped into the role of Communications Lead, where I use my creativity and technology skills to share the Trust’s work and engage people far and wide. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my horses and pets, as well as keeping active at the gym.

Jack Rivers

Senior Education, Wellbeing & Inclusion Officer

jack.rivers@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

Prior to joining the Wear Rivers Trust in 2024, I worked as a primary school teacher then as the lead trainer for a local LGBT+ charity. These experiences prepared me for my role as Senior Education, Wellbeing and Inclusion officer where I spend my time working closely with schools across the catchment, running fieldtrips, and heading up our mental health and wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. I have always enjoyed spending time outdoors and am passionate about encouraging young people to do the same. Plus, with a surname like mine, I sort of have to work here!

Philip Parker

Senior Environmental Education Officer

philip.parker@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

Following a ten-year career as a Primary School Teacher, and Head of PE, I decided to embrace my next calling, embarking on a new adventure: to educate and inspire the next generation in the importance of our rivers and all things nature! Since starting my journey with the Trust in April 2023, I have lead river-based field trips to thousands of children across the Wear Catchment. Alongside my role in the Education Team, I have managed to gain valuable experience delivering a project on the River South Burn. I also enjoy football, cricket, music, reading and climbing trees!

Mike Hill

Senior Agriculture Officer

mike.hill@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

I joined the Trust in August 2023. Having lived on a farm all my life, I have experience across a wide range of agricultural practices. After earning a degree in Economics, I worked on the farm and helped deliver a Countryside Stewardship Scheme that completely transformed its landscape. I later returned to university to complete an MSc in Rural Development and Resource Management before taking over the farm and developing its equestrian business. Outside of work, I like to stay active, enjoy working outdoors, and going to the gym.

Daniel Rutland

Volunteer & Engagement Officer 

daniel.rutland@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

With a lifelong passion for ecology and a background in support work, I love finding ways to connect people with nature. Having been a volunteer myself in numerous contexts, especially those concerned with environmental care and community gardening, I know how rewarding it is, and how valuable. My role at the Wear Rivers Trust is to make our activities as open and accessible as possible to volunteers, and to support our volunteers in the great work that they do.

Jon Digby

Sustainable Agriculture Officer

jon.digby@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

After growing up helping on the family farm in the Cairngorms, I’ve had a passion for exploring how we produce food in tandem with a thriving natural landscape. After working on SuDs projects in London, I completed an Agroecology MSc at Harper Adams in 2024 and have been in the Agriculture Team at the Wear Rivers Trust since. 

Simona Ackers Johnson

Biodiversity & Woodlands Project Officer

simona.a.johnson@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

Growing up in a small village in Yorkshire, I’ve always loved the great outdoors, which inspired me to study Environmental Science at university. After graduating in 2022, I did a farming and nature traineeship at the North Pennines National Landscape. In 2023 I started an MSc by Research on the spread of ticks and tick-borne disease in urban greenspaces, and in 2024 I joined WRT. My role in the project team is varied, with a focus on tree planting and Weardale invasive species. In my spare time I enjoy hiking, travelling, climbing, cooking, and looking after my pets and houseplants.

Heidi Kynoch

Nature Based Solutions Project Officer

heidi.kynoch@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

I bring an energetic blend of passion and experience to Wear Rivers Trust. With over 15 years in the snowsports, travel, and outdoor industries, from coaching national team athletes to commercial fishing, I’ve built a life around adventure and connection to the outdoors. A nature lover at heart, my happy place is always outside, hands in the dirt, feet on the pedals, or riding the North Sea waves. I love foraging for wild ingredients and even dabble in taxidermy. Committed to sustainable living, I’m always learning new ways to live in better harmony with the natural world.

Cat Jarman

Project Officer

cat.jarman@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

In 2022, after many years as a Creative Producer, I re-trained at Houghall College to gain an advanced Diploma in Land and Wildlife Management, from here I volunteered At Belsay Hall and Gardens and Tyne Rivers Trust to gain practical experience. I am currently a Project Officer at Wear Rivers Trust to gain further experience and skills in all aspects of working for a Rivers Trust. In this photo I am trying fly fishing- let’s say I’m NOT a natural!

Claire Dodds

Hydrological Project Officer

claire.dodds@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

Growing up close to the River Wear I developed an enthusiasm for Geography at a young age. Initially I followed this passion as a teacher of Geography. In 2018 I completed a Masters in Hydrogeology and Water Management. At Wear Rivers Trust I initially combined my expertise as a teacher with my knowledge of hydrology, before moving into a Project Officer role at the trust. You will often find me running or walking my dog along the river banks in Durham, when I am not at work.

Helen Richardson

Administration Officer

helen.richardson@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

I work in the Business Team at Wear Rivers Trust as an Administrator, helping to keep HR and general operations running smoothly. I’ve been with the Trust since 2019 and have over 30 years of experience in administrative and secretarial roles. I love spending time outdoors, whether in my garden or exploring the beautiful County Durham countryside on walks. When time allows, I also enjoy cold-water swimming, which I find both exhilarating and rejuvenating.

Cameron Curry

SuDS+ Monitoring Support

Officer

cameron.curry@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

As a proud North Easterner and lover of the outdoors, I’m passionate about conserving and improving our landscapes and waterways to showcase their natural beauty while benefiting local communities. With a background in civil engineering and project management, I developed a strong interest in natural flood management during my MSc research, which explored why it’s not more widely implemented. My findings revealed a lack of methods and data showing its social and environmental benefits. Motivated to change this, I joined the Wear Rivers Trust as a Monitoring Support Officer, focusing on capturing community benefits from the SuDS+ project in Stanley.

Hannah Clow

Education Support Officer

hannah.clow@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk

I studied BSc Geography at Northumbria University, where I developed an interest in fluvial environments and green solutions. During my degree, I spent a lot of time learning in the field – I am now excited to return the favour and educate the younger generations on protecting the local environment by applying the knowledge that I gained during my own education. My hobbies include going to music concerts and spending time with my cat, Jelly.

Michael Siddle

Chair of the Board of Trustees

Growing up beside the two rivers that flow through Bishop Auckland, the Gaunless and the Wear, Michael developed a deep, lifelong connection to the natural environment. This passion began at the age of 12 through birdwatching at Low Barns and grew further through years spent walking and exploring the northern hills and dales. Through these experiences, Michael gained a strong appreciation for the importance of environmental protection and conservation. Following a pollution incident, this commitment became action, leading to involvement with the Wear Rivers Trust. Starting as a volunteer, Michael went on to become a Trustee and, in 2025, Chair of the Trustee Board. In this role, Michael has seen first-hand the impact of the Trust’s collaborative work with partners across the Catchment Partnership. Alongside environmental leadership, Michael has a professional background in the chemical industry, supplying products to the aerospace sector, with their final role as a Regional Supply Chain Manager. Michael also serves the local community as a Town Councillor for Bishop Auckland.

Dan Britton

Deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees

Dan Britton, Vice Chair of Trustees

With a career rooted in the NHS, public service and operational excellence, Dan is passionate about leadership development, customer experience, and environmental sustainability. Living near the River Wear in Washington and a proud member of WWT Washington since 2010, he’s deeply committed to protecting the region’s natural environment and supporting local communities. Dan has been recognised for his leadership and impact, including being named as one of the Top 50 Global Inspiring Leaders. He also serves on the senior judging panel for CCA Global and is a lead judge for the North East Contact Centre Association, championing innovation and best practice across the sector. Dan actively supports cross-government collaboration through the North East Operational Delivery Professionals network.

Neil Ashforth

Trustee & Company Secretary

I joined the Trust as a Trustee on it’s inception back in 2008!  At that stage we had one employee, but we seemed to do a lot even back then. It’s just amazing to see how far the Trust has come and the wide variety of work we now do. I’m married with a Son & Daughter and a Grandson now too and I always wanted to ensure that they too could experience clean healthy rivers. Career wise, I joined the Civil Service and qualified as a Chartered Surveyor, retiring in 2017. I’ve always been a keen angler since my youth, fishing some small North Northumberland burns. I try to do my bit, not only as a Trustee, but as a Volunteer too on some of the many volunteering activities the Trust offers. 

Dr Terence Featherstone

Trustee

I was born and educated in Bishop Auckland and have a strong affinity with the Gaunless and Wear rivers. My wife Tracy and I own a Woodland Green Energy Farm beside the A689 at Coundon Gate. We are Forestry Commission Ambassadors and contribute regularly to advise and assist with Tree Planting projects throughout County Durham. I have been a Trustee for Wear Rivers for more than 3 years and thoroughly enjoy interaction with the enthusiastic & professional team.

Dave Hutchinson

Trustee

I qualified as an accountant and spent most of my career in local government, finishing at Northumberland County Council as Head of Audit. I took an opportunity for early retirement in my early 50s and then spent 11 years working for what is now the National Lottery Community Fund, managing teams assessing and awarding grants for community based projects. Following retirement, I wanted to use the skills and experience I had gained to give something back to society. I’ve lived most of my life near the Wear, spending many happy hours running, walking and cycling alongside it, so the opportunity to become a Trustee for WRT was ideal, and I have found my time with the Trust both interesting and enjoyable. Since joining the Trust in 2018 I have been able to help with a range of issues including overall management advice, staff recruitment and policy development and implementation.

Jason Kennedy

Trustee

Jason joined the Trust in May 2025 as a Trustee.  As a serving officer in the British Army for the past 36 years, he brings a wide range of knowledge, skills and experience to support the Trusts Senior Leadership Team.  Currently employed as the Deputy P3O and risk lead in a department within the Cyber and Specialist Operations Command, Jason is an ILM qualified Executive Coach and Mentor, with specific expertise in the delivery of strategy, and programme, project, assurance and risk management. Outside of work, Jason enjoys a wide range of music, enjoys coaching Rugby Union, has recently qualified as a Sports Diver and keeps his wellbeing on track by being outdoors trying to identify birds.  Originally from Bishop Auckland, Jason has a deep affinity with the River Wear and its tributaries.

Janice Baker

Trust Ambassador

“It is a great honour to be asked to be an Ambassador for the Wear Rivers Trust here in County Durham. We have farmed organically in the County since the early 90’s with our land and streams close to tributaries of the River Wear. Like many farmers I am very conscious of being custodians of the land and rivers for future generations. Farming has taught me a lot of things, not least patience! Nothing happens overnight; small changes now can make a massive difference going forward. We can all strive to educate and excite the next generation to improve their knowledge and understanding of Mother Nature and how our small actions could make huge differences good – or bad – for the future. We are fortunate to be able to access all the great knowledge of science and discovery and how it can help protect and enhance the precious resources of clean water. The WWT tells us 1% of the earth’s surface is made up of freshwater ecosystems, yet they provide habitat for 130,000+ species, as well as freshwater for us humans! There are many many ways we all enjoy our water ways from sports, leisure, and most importantly our mental health. Let’s all make a conscious effort to make a difference to protecting this precious resource. We hope you enjoy our new website. Check out the forthcoming events, I hope to see you there.”

“He who hears the rippling of rivers will not utterly despair of anything.” – Henry David Thoreau