Who We Are
The Friends of Hell Wath (FOHW) was formed in 2017 and became a registered charity (Reg Charity No 1195980) on 30th September 2021. Our aim is to help maintain and manage Hell Wath so that it continues to provide a good home to nature and a place to be enjoyed by people.
The Friends of Hell Wath support the work of Harrogate Borough Council who lease the site from the landowner, Tarmac Limited. We also work in partnership with the National Trust and Nidderdale AONB to deliver the objectives of the Skell Valley Project.
The Charity is currently administered by five Trustees but membership of the Friends of Hell Wath is open to all, and you don’t have to be a member to participate in our activities.
Get To Know The Trustees
As a registered charity, we are required to appoint Trustees to manage the affairs of the organisation. The number of Trustees, their appointment and their responsibilities are set out in the charity constitution.
Matthew Adamson
Matthew lives locally and has a special interest in plant habitats with expertise in plant identification. Matthew has been instrumental in setting up plant surveys on Hell Wath and in putting forward proposals to improve wildlife habitats across the site.
Katie Scott Appointed Chair from 18th January 2024
I have lived in Ripon for nearly 8 years and walk the family dog, Murphy, pretty much every day on Hell Wath
Originally from the Midlands, my background is in marketing and fundraising for arts organisations. I have served on various committees and boards over the years including as a school governor and member of a parochial church council. I am also a Co-Director of Ripon Theatre Festival.
I love getting out into the Dales for longer walks when possible and I am an avid theatre-goer. I would always choose an hour’s litter-picking or balsam-bashing at Hell Wath over going to the gym.
Carol Leo Appointed Treasurer
Having retired from a successful business management career, including qualification as a chartered accountant, I was looking for a local opportunity that used my skills but also fitted with my love of the countryside and outdoor pursuits.
When my husband and I moved to Ripon in 2015 we were delighted to find a house that backs on to Hell Wath. We appreciate having this beautiful area of recreational green space literally on our doorstep.
When the Friends of Hell Wath was established, I volunteered for the role of Treasurer, a position I have held as committee member and now as a Trustee. I have been delighted to use my knowledge and experience to help with the administration and development of this group. My husband and I also participate in many of the ‘hands-on’ activities organised by the Friends of Hell Wath.
John Pearse Co-Opted Trustee
John lives locally and has a special interest in bats ( a certified bat surveyor ). John has led projects to monitor bats on Hell Wath and the installation of bat boxes and tawny owl boxes on site. He is been an active member of FOHW and is interested in improving the habitats and ecology of Hell Wath to benefit wildlife.
Jem Dunford Resigned 2nd September 2024
I have lived in Ripon for 5 years and near Pateley Bridge for 15 years before that. I am a retired headteacher with many years experience of working with committees, partner organisations and community groups as well as political and commercial bodies.
I chose to live near Hell Wath because of the easy access to countryside for dog walking and walking with the family, although my walking does rely on a wheelchair. My life and family has nearly always been centred around the countryside with family farming connections as well as interests in rural ecological conservation
Stuart Martin Resigned as Chair and Trustee on 18th January 2024
FOHW would like to acknowledge the important role Stuart played in the founding of the Friends of Hell Wath. His contribution to the setting up and running of FOHW, first as a Community Voluntary Group, then as a Registered Charity is greatly appreciated.
Malcom Cross Resigned as Trustee on 18th January 2024
FOHW would like to thank Malcolm for the valuable contribution he made to the founding of the Friends of Hell Wath and his enthusiastic participation in many activities over the years.
© Friends of Hell Wath 2024. All Rights Reserved. Site by Bronco