Our dedicated trustees oversee the direction and operations of Northants Parkinson’s People. They are committed to ensuring our charity delivers the best support, activities, and services for people living with Parkinson’s. Their leadership and vision drive our mission forward, fostering a sense of community, compassion, and care for everyone we serve.
Together, they work tirelessly to improve the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s and ensure the charity remains a trusted resource for support and advocacy.
Richard Clifft, Chairman
For those who don’t know me, my name is Richard Clifft. My wife Yvonne and I are now both retired. My career background was in construction. I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s ten years ago, following the diagnosis, I had the opportunity to take part in several exercise groups. One of these eventually lead to my role as a Parkinson’s UK Nordic Walking Ambassador, championing the use of walking poles as an aid for those with Parkinson’s.
I joined Fit&Fab exercise group 5 years ago, and have been a member of NPP since it started, participating in the weekly walks, and contributing time to fund-raising. I’m also a member of the Northants Young Parkinson’s Division (yes, even at 75!) run by Nick Clark. It’s a privilege to take on the role of
John Ellis, Treasurer
I first learnt of Northants Parkinson’s People after my wife, Rosemary, was invited to join a friend at the Fit and Fab sessions, and subsequently she went on the park walks. I join her occasionally on the walks, and discovered very quickly the passion and friendliness of everyone involved.
When I heard that the current Treasurer wanted to step down, I realised that it gave me the opportunity to offer to give something back, to thank everyone for the welcome given to Rosemary, and to do something in memory of my dad and uncle, who both suffered from Parkinson’s Disease. I am retired, and my working background was in banking, building society and also as Finance Officer for Motor Neurone Disease Association.
Karen Stokes, Secretary
I’m Karen, from Northamptonshire and currently working at Barclaycard. I wanted to be part of this venture after learning more about Parkinson’s disease from a good friend of mine. After hearing so many uplifting stories about the good that can come from local and peer support, as well as exercise and group activities, how could I not want to be part of it?
I firmly believe we can make a difference in Northamptonshire to anyone affected by this disease, be that the service user, or their family and friends – and I can’t wait to be part of it!
Nick Clark, Trustee
Hello, my name is Nick and I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2006 which was a big shock at 49. I felt like locking myself away and not telling anyone, I then, through a Parkinson’s Nurse, was given Angela Jeffery’s number who ran a support group, this was the best thing that could have happened to me.
Angela obviously knew quite a few other people with Parkinson’s and suggested I set up and organise meetings for a men’s only group which I was happy to do. This has been a great success with us meeting once a month for various activities such as snooker, bowling and going to the pub for meals and the odd brewery tour!
Barry Johnson, Trustee
Angela requested me to write about my election to the N.P.P. committee. I start from the position that I have always advocated that one should never volunteer for anything. As a rule when requested to volunteer by taking one step forward, my instinct is to take one step back. Having said this somehow or other I have served on committees since all my children’s school lives every year until 1993 when our youngest left school.
I hadn’t missed them
When a member of the committee: Mr Turpin, real name withheld as requested, asked me to put my name forward to serve, I was reluctant but talked it over with Mrs Tarzan. She persuaded me to seriously consider becoming a member of the committee. She felt, despite my not having gained any wisdom with age that I had enthusiasm to offer. I would not want to take up any position of responsibility, I see myself as a willing worker bee who buzzes round trying to help.
Northants Parkinson’s People is a wonderful organisation that I will support to the best of my abilities, we are very fortunate that we have our headmistress Angela who has such a wealth of knowledge regarding Parkinson’s that we are able to call upon whenever we need, I must also mention encouragement from Karen , Sylvia, John and Richard. I know there are lots of people I’ve yet to meet.
Any advice that members wish to give me will be taken on strict instruction from my legal representative, but seriously, as long as we all look out for each other I hope that we will progress forward and help others in a similar situation.