Behind the scenes at Ferne Animal Sanctuary is a passionate and dedicated Board of Trustees. These are a group of individuals who bring a wealth of experience, volunteering their time with compassion and commitment to support our ongoing activities. Each trustee plays a vital role in helping Ferne achieve its mission to care for and rehome animals in need, ensuring the Sanctuary continues to thrive for generations to come.
In the recent edition @Ferne magazine, we interviewed each of the trustees who range from business leaders to healthcare professionals to find out more about who they are and why they dedicate their time to support the vital work we do.
Bob O’Connor, Trustee at Ferne Animal Sanctuary
Bob O’Connor
Tell us about yourself in three sentences:
I retired in 2019 after working for almost 50 years, the last 30 in senior management — ending with 15 years as CEO of two zoos in Kent: Howletts and Port Lympne. I’m married with three children and four grandchildren and moved back to Somerset upon retirement. I’m also a season ticket holder at Bristol Bears rugby club and never miss a home game if I can help it.
What inspired you to become a trustee, and how long have you had this role?
Around 12 months before retiring, I was approached by the then CEO of Ferne to ask what my retirement plans were. I said I wanted to volunteer and give back to society, so I looked for suitable roles in the area. I became a Trustee in 2019 and Chair in 2021.
What does your role entail?
I chair all board meetings and line manage the CEO.
What’s special about Ferne for you?
It’s the dogs that drew me in. I’ve had dogs most of my adult life, always rescues. As one of the oldest animal charities in the UK, Ferne holds a special place for me. I’m proud to do my bit for disadvantaged domestic animals in Somerset.
What do you enjoy most at the Sanctuary?
Knowing that the animals always come first.
What is your favourite animal?
I spent 16 years working with exotic animals, including gorillas, elephants, tigers, and lions, to name a few, along the way I have been lucky enough to see many of them in their natural environment. However, nothing beats the love of a dog.
Karen Chadwick, Trustee at Ferne Animal Sanctuary
Karen Chadwick
Tell us about yourself in three sentences:
I’m a mum to two young adult daughters and a lifelong animal lover. I currently have a rescue horse (from Ferne), a rescue cat and a dog. I also volunteer for Riding for the Disabled, supporting riders and helping fundraise.
What inspired you to become a trustee, and how long have you had this role?
I took early retirement from a busy career and wanted to “give something back.” When I saw the Ferne trustee role advertised, I knew it was the perfect fit – especially as my much-loved horse came from Ferne! I’ve been part of the board for about 18 months.
What does your role entail?
As a Trustee, I support and hold the senior team accountable for delivering in the charity’s best interests. I bring HR, customer service, and retail experience to the team and sit on the Marketing & Fundraising and Ethics Committees.
What’s special about Ferne for you?
The incredible care and compassion for animals that has been central to Ferne since it was founded. I’m humbled to play a small part in that.
What do you enjoy most at the Sanctuary?
Hearing the journeys of animals who’ve come through Ferne. Many arrive through no fault of their own and I love seeing them thrive.
What is your favourite animal?
I love all animals, but if pressed, I’d say goats! They’re endlessly entertaining , but I can’t tell my own animals I’ve chosen favourites!
Richard Fuller, Trustee at Ferne Animal Sanctuary
Richard Fuller
Tell us about yourself in three sentences:
I live just a few miles from the Sanctuary, so it’s easy to visit, especially when we’re looking after the grandchildren! I try to keep fit and enjoy the occasional running or cycling challenge in between visits to the physio. Most days, you’ll find me in the garden, often rounding up our rescue chickens and cats (unless there’s Formula 1 on TV!).
What inspired you to become a trustee, and how long have you had this role?
I’ve known about Ferne and its great work for a long time. I decided that if my business experience could help Ferne through difficult post-COVID times, I’d be delighted to get involved. I’ve proudly been a Trustee since 2021.
What does your role entail?
The essence of the role is to support the CEO and senior leadership team in delivering Ferne’s mission and strategic goals, ensuring best practice in financial control and governance. I attend quarterly Board meetings and chair the Finance and General Purpose Committee. I also attend the Marketing Committee.
What’s special about Ferne for you?
The hard work and commitment of all our amazing colleagues and volunteers.
What do you enjoy most at the Sanctuary?
The camaraderie among Trustees is great. I also think the new Perdida Café looks fantastic too!
What is your favourite animal?
It has to be the guinea pigs.
Verity Stiff, Trustee at Ferne Animal Sanctuary
Verity Stiff
Tell us about yourself in three sentences:
I’m a human resources professional with experience in organisational management and development. I’ve worked as Head of HR and as a consultant for professional services, international development, research and scientific organisations, as well as UK- and US-based non-profits. In my spare time, I’m a keen choral singer.
What inspired you to become a trustee, and how long have you had this role?
When I moved to the area, I was finishing my final term on the board of an international charity and looking for a local organisation where I could contribute my expertise. I was inspired by Ferne’s mission, and history and joined the Board three years ago.
What does your role entail?
I chair the Health and Safety Committee, ensuring Ferne remains a safe place for staff, volunteers and visitors. I also contribute to HR and governance oversight.
What’s special about Ferne for you?
Ferne’s origin story is compelling and though some animal rescue cases are heartbreaking, seeing how many lives the Sanctuary has transformed makes it all worthwhile.
What do you enjoy most at the Sanctuary?
It’s a beautiful setting, and I’m constantly impressed by the dedication and hard work of staff and volunteers, especially through challenges like COVID and animal illnesses that have affected operations.
What is your favourite animal?
Please don’t make me choose! I grew up with dogs, cats, and horses – at times, donkeys and hens too. I love them all!
Mike Richards, Trustee at Ferne Animal Sanctuary
Mike Richards
Tell us about yourself in three sentences:
I worked as a GP in South Devon until I retired to East Devon, just a few minutes from Ferne. If I’m not busy with our three dogs, you’ll find me on the golf course or in my workshop trying to improve my woodturning skills. We’ve always had dogs and cats and love encountering wildlife at home and on holiday.
What inspired you to become a trustee, and how long have you had this role?
After years as a GP caring for patients, I found my skills transferable to animal care. With more spare time in retirement and living locally, becoming a Trustee three years ago was a natural fit.
What does your role entail?
Trustees work with staff to ensure we can continue to care for animals now and in the future. We aim to maximise income, spend wisely and tell Ferne’s story. I chair the Animal Ethics and Welfare Subcommittee, supporting the animal care team. I also sit on the Finance Subcommittee, drawing on my previous management experience.
What’s special about Ferne for you?
The fantastic work done caring for animals of all kinds. The history and dedication of Ferne’s staff constantly amazes me.
What do you enjoy most at the Sanctuary?
The people and how they care for the animals, whether directly or in support roles, of course including our wonderful volunteers.
What is your favourite animal?
Having three dogs, I have a soft spot for larger breeds, but my all-time favourite has to be the sea lion, after having the chance to swim with them.
At the heart of our leadership team the trustees are all dedicated advocates of the work we for while being lifelong animal lovers for which we are eternally grateful.
Visit our support us page here to learn more about how you can support our work.
