The Friends of Butser Ancient Farm Committee
The Friends charity is organised by a group of volunteers, each of whom has been involved with the Butser Ancient Farm for a number of years. You can find out a little more about them from their bio’s below. If you ever want to get in touch with a committee member, just email us at butserfriends@gmail.com
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STEPHEN CUMMINS
C H A I R
A Governance and Democracy professional by day, with a career starting in education, before moving into roles across the charity sector, NHS and local government, I am also studying for a Law Degree with the Open University.
When not working or studying, I enjoy writing, photography, travel, food and long walks through the countryside.
Volunteering has always been an important part of my life. I’ve spent many years supporting health charities which has taken me across the UK, delivering talks, and to China and South Africa where I worked to deliver healthcare in rural communities.
My commitment to the Farm stems from my keen interest in social and food history, and because it’s such a unique and inspiring place. By bringing my governance experience to the charity, I am able to support our stewardship and charitable purpose ensuring the Friends, and the Farm, continues to thrive.
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LYNDSAY THOMSON
TREASURER
I am an IT manager by profession, but my degree is in Business Management and Economics. I have also just signed up to do my masters in Business Administration.
When I am not working or studying I find it imperative for my mental health to get into nature and I am lucky enough to live somewhere with access to lots of green space.
I am passionate about educating the next generation about our natural history so they can learn how to continue to manage existing activities. Without history we have no future.
Although I am based in Scotland my skill set allows me to support the Friends continue their important work continuing research and education.
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HILARY FOLEY
COMMITTEE MEMBER
I first brought my children to Butser 20 years ago and they loved the site, coming back at first to enjoy the activities and eventually to help run them. I became a Friend and decided to extend my knowledge with an A level in Archaeology.
As a Chartered Building Surveyor, I have always had an interest in vernacular construction and enjoy helping out with maintenance and repairs whenever there is an opportunity.
I now live in Dorset and when not volunteering with the Sea Cadets, I maintain a focus on experimental archaeology, working with the Ancient Technology Centre.
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EIRA MORGAN-HARRISSKITT
C O M M I T E E M E M B E R
I am a Communications and Marketing Manager by profession, and have a masters' degree in Professional Writing, but outside of my day job I am also an artist and published children's author. All of my books are rooted in my love for forests and nature, but I particularly adore anthropology, especially when it relates to how people have survived and thrived since ancient times, and this is a theme I return to again and again.
I first visited Butser Ancient Farm on an early date with the man who is now my husband, so it has a very special place in my heart.
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TONY MORGAN-JONES
COMMITTEE MEMBER
I have been a teacher and lecturer for most of my life, but have done a wide range of other jobs over time.
I love working with children, as there is nothing quite as special as seeing their wonder and joy as they learn things for the first time. My wife and I started a Woodcraft group for children between the ages of five and sixteen and ran this for around ten years.
Making history come alive is a particularly good way of engaging with children and Butser Ancient Farm is perfect for that.
I also enjoy D.I.Y. so getting hands on with things at the farm is a real treat!
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JACQUELINE PETTS
C O M M I T E E M E M B E R
I’m a Partner and General Counsel at Greyhound Capital, a growth equity fund and I oversee the legal and compliance function.Previously, I worked for Silver Lake Partners for over 12 years in their Hong Kong, London, Menlo Park and New York offices. I hold a BA and MA in jurisprudence from Magdalen College, Oxford and am qualified to practice law in England & Wales and New York.
My husband and I, and our young family feel privileged to share in the wonderful educational resources that Butser Ancient Farm has to offer and we’re keen to support the work of the Friends.