The Team
Our team is dedicated to the Foundation's goals, and proud to work and play in the Lake District.
Sarah Swindley
Director
Sarah joined the Lake District Foundation from her previous role as CEO of Lancashire Women’s Centres where since 2011 she successfully developed the size, turnover and impact of the charity. She is excited to be taking on this new role at such an important time in the history of the Lake District.
Sarah Halliwell
Deputy CEO
Sarah joined the LDF in 2023 bringing a diverse range of experience gained in the tourism, inclusion , physical activity and the environmental sectors. Sarah is a nature lover and wild swimmer who loves the Lake District and is excited to have the opportunity to lead work that protects and improves this amazing place.
Sarah Smith
Operations Manager
Sarah joined us in 2013 as a volunteer before managing a number of sustainable tourism campaigns, and now oversees the day to day running of the charity. Sarah is passionate about sustainable tourism and loves working with businesses and visitors to have a positive impact on the landscape and wildlife of Lake District.
Pam Purcell
Finance Manager
Pam joined our team in 2015. She has over 25 years experience as a Finance Manager and loves making the figures balance. Pam swapped her California home for living in the beautiful Lake District where she enjoys walking, cycling and travelling around in her campervan.
Sandra Edmondson
Administration Officer
Sandra has worked for over 30 years, supporting the National Park. She joined the LDF Team in 2017 and keeps everything running smoothly. Supporting our events and campaigns, and helping with the day to day running of the charity
Liv Allport
Programme Manager
Liv joined the team in July 2022, bringing experience of grant funding and programme development. A passion for nature draws her to the Lake District and has influenced her work in the heritage sector. Liv loves walking her dog in the countryside and searching for the next hidden beauty spot, complete with a tearoom at the end!
Steve Tonkin
Fundraising Manager
Steve is our Fundraising Manager and all round fixer! Coming from the commercial sector he has a great knowledge of Online marketing and fundraising. He is an open water swimmer and loves spending most of his time in the mountains. He is our main fundraiser for Fix the Fells.
Emily Hicks
Research Coordinator
Emily joined the team in 2023, initially supporting the delivery of the Low Carbon Grant Scheme. Currently, she is coordinating a project surrounding the newest National Trails. Studying biology at university, alongside her love of hiking, has made her enthusiastic about safeguarding the beauty and biodiversity of the natural world.
Char Binns
Communications & Engagement Officer
Char brings 15+ years third-sector experience to the team. After 6 years leading the UK’s longest running LGBTQIA arts and culture festival, Char relocated from Liverpool to Lancaster to spend more time in the hills, as a fell runner and hiker. Her favourite dog walk with her misfit pack of 4 hounds is at Fell Foot on Windermere.
