John Thirlwell, Chair of the Board John Thirlwell is a professional in the film and broadcast sector.He has been a trustee for two Yorkshire charities and is on the national volunteer group of Save the Children. John lives in Ilkley and has been Chair of the Brontë Society Board since December 2015.
Rev Peter Mayo-Smith, Treasurer Peter Mayo-Smith, now retired, was Rector of Haworth Parish. Prior to going into the church, Peter worked at a senior level for several financial institutions managing significant business projects. Previously, he had been a research scientist before turning to management consultancy. He became Honorary Treasurer at the 2015 AGM.
Susan Aykroyd (Vice Chair) Susan is originally from Haworth and has been an active member of the Bronte Society for almost 30 years.She lives in London and has a background in media sales, retail and the Civil Service.Susan has served as a Trustee since 2012 and is currently Vice Chair of Council.
David Broadley David has a working background in finance and management in public service. He is passionate about helping secure a successful future for the Brontë Society, ensuring it is suitably equipped to meet all the challenges of the 21st century.
Patricia Gurney Patricia studied languages before becoming a teacher. She now specialises in assessing and teaching dyslexic people. Her experiences as a councillor have helped her to build positive relationships as well as research, negotiate and achieve goals. Patricia also serves the George Borrow Society as Events Secretary.
Anne Simpson Anne has been a member of the Brontë Society for twenty years and has been a trustee for six years. Her background is family business and she has studied Business Management at degree level. Anne has been a committee member of three other large charities, is a former Parish Councillor and is now a member of several other large Literary Societies and Museums.
Michelle Waterworth Michelle studied theology at Oxford University before completing a postgraduate degree in newspaper journalism. After working as a news reporter for the regional press, Michelle moved into public relations in the higher education sector, firstly in the press office at Oxford University and then at the University of Essex, before retraining to work in the criminal justice sector.Michelle has been on the board of an annual arts festival and is currently a school foundation governor. She is currently Vice Chair of Council.
Samantha Ellis Samantha is an experienced journalist and author of two books. She is very interested in helping the Society reach more diverse visitors and members.
Diane Park Diane is a Haworth business woman with a background in customer service, sales and retail. She has also served as a local authority councillor, a church deacon and Rotary President.
Helen Meller Helen Meller is Director of Hebden Bridge Arts Festival and Co-Director at Lumb Bank, Arvon's Yorkshire Writing Centre. She has an extensive track record in the arts and heritage sector in areas including project management, fundraising, strategic development and sustainable business planning. She is committed to reaching new audiences and deepening engagement.