Horizons is a Registered Charity with a Board of Trustees who are responsible for the conduct of the organisation, ensuring that it operates in accordance with its Articles of Association and that all the funds received by Horizons are used exclusively for the achievement of its stated objectives.
The Trustees meet regularly to review Horizons’ finances and operational projects, as well as making sure that all the necessary procedures are in place to operate safely.
Dr James Hill
“I was delighted to be asked to become a Trustee of Horizons. I have known of their work for many years and strongly believe that getting children out in boats enhances their development and confidence.”
James is GP at South Brent in Devon. He started sailing at a Children’s sailing club on the Norfolk Broads age 11 and has sailed ever since on both dinghies and yachts. He has a long association with Plymouth starting his medical career at Devonport Hospital and has remained in Devon ever since.
Mr Rory Anderson
“I feel very fortunate to be part of an organisation like Horizons, which provides a fun and safe environment for young people to experience not only being out on the water, but also learning to be part of a team of other children and adults. Becoming a trustee of such an organisation is a great privilege.”
Rory is a semi-retired IT project manager, having spent most of his working life in financial institutions in the city of London. He has been sailing on and off for most of his life, and has brought up two enthusiastic sailors in the shape of his children. He also volunteers as a Hawk skipper, and helps out in various other ways with the work of Horizons.
Pete Bone
“Horizons Plymouth follows the RYA Codes of Practice to keep everyone safe on the water, as well as enabling our youngsters to extend their skills through RYA Training schemes. My broad experience in sailing and powerboating, together with my in-depth RYA knowledge, will help Horizons make the most of new developments in the sector.”
Pete is a specialist advisor in the farming industry and also works as an RYA Sailing Development Officer. He started sailing in 1969 at South Cerney Outdoor Centre and went on to become and RYA Senior Instructor in both Dinghies and Powerboats. He has taught at locations across the UK as well serving as Commodore of his local sailing club and on various RYA Committees.
Mrs Jo Byrne
“Having grown up in the local area, I feel very privileged to be part of such a wonderful, well organised charity that makes a huge difference to disadvantaged youngsters and those with additional needs. Horizons Plymouth helps young people gain new life skills, confidence and experience through sailing in the most amazing local waters of Plymouth.”
Jo has over 30 years experience as a Project Manager leading Regional, National and European Funded projects at the University of Plymouth. With an MBA and MSc in Marine Renewable Energy she has headed up strategic development opportunities in research, innovation and business collaboration. Jo is currently working on curriculum development to enhance the University’s higher level degree apprenticeship programmes.
Mr Michael Malric-Smith
“From the first time I turned up as a tentative volunteer it was obvious that Horizons is a special organisation and a special group of people. The good they do, particularly in the Schools Project, is self-evident and delivered in a very accessible, happy, safe environment. I am honoured to be a Trustee.”
Michael has worked in aviation for 45 years as a helicopter specialist in the Royal Navy and industry. Working variously as a display pilot, head of training, filming pilot, operations director and chief pilot. He caught the sailing bug in 1970 and as a Horizons volunteer is happy in anything that floats.
Mrs Tara Vassallo
“It is hard to put into words how important Horizons is to so many children, young people and families in Plymouth. Beyond the educational, social and mental health benefits having the opportunity to sail brings, every cadet also has a real sense of belonging at Horizons, a place of genuine inclusion and friendship. I am very proud to be a trustee of such a special organisation.”
Tara is a lecturer and doctoral researcher at the University of Plymouth, specialising in autism and education, with a background in psychology and child development. She is also active within the voluntary sector, co-chairing Plymouth Parent Carer Voice, and running the National Autistic Society’s local parent support group in the city.
Dr Jennie Richardson
“I feel very fortunate and privileged to be asked to be a trustee of Horizons. I have been inspired by their work with young people for many years. It will be wonderful now to be actively engaged in a community that brings fun, learning and improved confidence to young folk through sailing in a safe, happy environment.”
Jennie was a GP for 32 years in Plymouth until retirement. Sailing has always been part of her life but more recently enjoys dinghy sailing and yachting when time allows!