Tracey Clarke, Allan Spence, Simon Fox, Anthony Rands, Barbara Key, Andy Ellison, and Eric Jones
NATIONAL TEAMS
Tracey Clarke
Tracey currently sits on the Trust’s National Council, representing the interests of disabled boaters. She has given consultation to the Trust for over 9 years and is the founder and current chair of the Accessible Waterways Association (AWA). She has been integral in shaping accessibility considerations is always available for consultation and strives to improve Trust processes as well as
on the ground accessibility improvements.
EAST MIDLANDS
Allan Spence
Allan has a background in Health and Safety and joined the Trust as a volunteer Lock Keeper in 2022. He soon took on lead lock keeping duties and has supported recruitment and training of lock keepers and additionally volunteers to man Braunston Tunnel. In addition, he also volunteers with Braunston Canal Society. Allan provides outstanding support to the volunteers and staff that he works with and is particularly skilled in supporting our volunteers with new processes and ensuring safety is placed as paramount on site.
WEST MIDLANDS
Simon Fox
Simon has been volunteering for the Trust for just over three years; he started as a Lock Keeper and quickly became involved in many of the Taskforces running on the Coventry/Oxford canals. As a lock keeper he was the driving force in raising funds to install a defibrillator at Atherstone locks. He is extremely active on social media and publicises the amazing wok of volunteering that he is involved in. His energy and enthusiasm are observed by everyone, and he is a joy to have as a Trust volunteer.
LONDON AND SOUTH EAST
Anthony Rands
Anthony volunteers in both the community engagement and operations teams across London. He volunteers in such a vast variety of roles from operational taskforces, boat moving & maintenance, lock keeping, undertaking school visits and outreach. You name it and he has done it. Anthony is praised for bringing his wealth of knowledge, his strong work ethic, his calm positivity and his openness to include everyone in all of his volunteering.
NORTH WEST
Barbara Kay
Barbara has dedicated over 15 years and nearly 4,700 hours volunteering at the National Waterways Museum, excelling in roles from event planning to marketing. She’s the museum’s public face and a behind-the-scenes powerhouse, producing high-quality promotional materials and leading outreach efforts. Her creativity and leadership shine through in everything from historical tours to newsletter editing. Barbara actively engages with the community and inspires younger generations to volunteer. Loved by her team, she brings warmth, reliability, and joy to every project she touches.
YORKSHIRE AND NORTH EAST
Andy Ellison
Andy is a dedicated and cheerful volunteer who plays a key role in the Bingley 5 Rise lock keeping team, ensuring boater safety and mentoring new starters. He contributes to both seasonal and year-round maintenance tasks, including culvert clearing and mooring installations. His commitment extends to office duties, where he’s expertly managed lifejacket logistics for staff and volunteers. Andy’s reliability and high standards make him an invaluable asset across multiple teams. His positivity, hard work, and versatility are deeply appreciated by all who work with him.
WALES AND SOUTH WEST
Eric Jones
Eric has devoted over 3,600 hours to volunteering at Trevor Basin Visitor Centre, where he’s a beloved Aqueduct Ranger and team member. His cheerful nature, reliability, and dedication shine through in all weather, offering guidance and support to thousands of visitors. Known for his warm welcomes and tireless work ethic, Eric is a true ambassador for the Trust. His transformation from shy to confident has inspired colleagues and earned heartfelt praise. Always ready to help, Eric is treasured by staff, volunteers, and the community alike.