Founders and Directors

Founding Member. Retired, former Head of Engineering.

With 40 years of working in the public sector and private industry. His main responsibilities for engineering teams delivering capital projects and plant maintenance with 10 years in a senior management role in a multi-national corporation within the United Kingdom. Life-long interest in renewables and alternative technologies. Treasurer and active member of Longridge Environment Group. who is also a family man with 3 grown-up children and 8 grandchildren.

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Nicola Parkinson

Founding Member, Studying: Environmental Management

Currently studying for her MSc in Environmental Management at Lancaster University alongside studying Nicola is working as an Engagement Officer for a local conservation charity. Her previous experience includes 15 years as a middle leader/head of department in secondary schools, Nicola is also passionate about environmental issues from conservation to net zero transition. She is also a mum of two girls, Nicola enjoys time outdoors, theatre and cake!

Joe Allman

Founding Member, Self-employed Barrister.

Joe is a barrister, specialising in the areas of counter-terrorism, organised crime, and serious sexual offences. Most of his practice is in Preston. Joe believes in the power of communities to tackle climate change and poverty. He has two girls, Joe enjoys climbing, fell running and wild swimming in his spare time.

Robin Jones

Lancashire Area Lead, NW Net Zero Hub

Robin has an MSc in Renewable Energy Engineering from UCLan and works within net zero for Lancashire County Council. Previously Robin worked for the net zero team of Together Housing Association. Responsible for a pioneering solar and storage pilot project for the social housing sector currently covering 250 homes in Lancashire. Pro Preston Model and buying local, Robin can often be found playing tennis or failing to keep up with his border collie.

Kate Tuffs

Project manager for a national educational charity

Kate is responsible for leading a variety of business and technical projects. With a keen interest in renewable technologies and committed to making a positive impact in the world of sustainable energy solutions. Kate is a mum of two boys, enjoys spending time with her family and friends, going out and having fun days together exploring new places.

Director

Gemma Voaden

Delivery Manager – Retrofit and Renewable Heat

Anna Townsend

Civil Servant

Anna has recently project managed the retrofit of her family home and as a result she has developed a keen interest in renewable technology and tackling the status quo that persists in the energy sector. Working in the civil service she has extensive experience in contract, change and line management. Anna is mum to 2 young children, 1 cat and 6 chickens and outside of work enjoys walking, picnicking when the weather permits and gardening.  

Dean Smith AMEI

Renewable and Sustainable Engineer

Dean is the owner and founder of The Ribble Vanguard and Green Dream Solutions. Dean graduated with his M.Sc. in Advanced Renewable and Sustainable Engineering in June 2024; Dean specialises in preventative engineering solutions to climate change, sea level rise, Renewable energy generation, Dean is also a associate member of the Energy Institute and the Institution of Engineering and Technology.

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