Dronfield Heritage Trust, the organisation which runs Dronfield Hall Barn on the town’s High Street, has a new Chair of Trustees.
Louise Third MBE has been a trustee of the charity for two years and takes over from Alan Powell, a former newspaper editor and very active in Dronfield civic life. Louise steps in as the Trust celebrates the 10th anniversary of the restoration of the Grade II* listed building and the development of its stunning gardens. With the support of a further grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund grant, the charity is planning ahead for the next ten years.
“It is a real privilege to have been asked to serve the Dronfield Heritage Trust and everyone associated with the charity in this very practical way. I recall the day well in 2004 when I hesitantly ventured up a long ladder to explore the vast oak beams of the derelict Old Hall Barn on High Street. One of the trustees had asked me to do some voluntary press work for them. It was a news-worthy story, so I said yes.
“Never did I imagine that 21 years later, and ten years since the £1.5 million restoration was completed, I would be taking over as chair to continue the work and help shape the charity for the next ten years.”
Louise and the Board of Trustees have already started work on a review of how the organization runs and what more can be achieved. With around 60 volunteers, over 1200 Friends of the Barn, and a hardworking staff team, the charity is well-placed to build on its community and commercial success.
“We’d really like to develop our connections, especially with potential donors and corporate partners. We are custodians of a unique venue which attracts well over 50,000 visitors a year,” continues Louise. “So whether it’s getting involved with our major community events, becoming professional advisers, or even Patrons makes commercial sense as well as being great for giving back to the area. There’s no limit to the creative ways anyone can get involved.”
Former chair Alan Powell, who will support Louise in the role of deputy chair, said: “As the Trust enters a new phase it is good to know that someone who is absolutely committed to continuing the success of The Trust and Barn is taking up this position.”
Louise is originally from Holmesfield in Derbyshire and has kept close links with Dronfield. She has blended her career in marketing and media work with charity volunteering. She was a director of Nottingham-based public relations agency Integra Communications Limited for nearly 20 years and was awarded an MBE for services to enterprise and charity in 2016.
