The Birchvale Board

Stephen Carruthers (Chairperson)

Stephen has experience in event management with an extensive 20-year knowledge of the theatre as a director and actor will be invaluable in creating a lively and exciting arts venue. He has experience in touring all around Scotland and the UK, including 2 shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2 years running (1 being a sell-out run), the Brighton Fringe and a tour of the Highlands and Islands with productions. Stephen has directed 3 of the company’s most successful pantomimes and is also responsible for the running of the youth theatre groups.

Sue Lewington (Vice Chairperson)

Sue was a very experienced Manager spending over 20 years in Local Government, specialising, qualifying in and practicing in Election Administration, Health and Safety, Deputy Returning Officer duties and Public Relations.

Dawn Newbould (Treasurer)

Dawn has extensive clerical skills with over 20 years experience working for the Inland Revenue and for Dumfries and Galloway Council for 6 years. She has skills working with cash, banking and accounts.

Julie Rain (Bookkeeper)

Julie has worked with finance for much of her career as a book keeper, accountant, now specialising in payroll and PAYE. She has also supervised staff.

Dean McCormick (Secretary)

Dean is a very experienced administrative officer. Working for the local authority for over 13 years, he successfully raised the funding for phase 1 of the Birchvale project.

Julie Wong (Child Protection Officer)

Julie was a specialist nursing sister in ophthalmology before taking a career break in 2010 to look after her parents, she now runs a successful bridal business.

Janice Landsborough (Mental Health Officer)

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Rhona Taylor (Trustee)

Rhona has experience on Boards serving as treasurer of the Dalbeattie Playgroup, and currently treasurer and active committee member of Langlands School Parent Council. With an excellent understanding of neurodiversity through being a parent carer, extensive administrative skills as a paralegal and as a partner in a farming business.

Brian Lewington (Trustee)

Brian has had a varied career mainly based in Motor Engineering, working as a General Manager, Quality & Environment Manager to the BSI Standard level responsible for a large workforce.

Brian Carson (Trustee)

In the building trade for over 40 years, Brian started his own company in 1988 and ran it for 18 years with great success, selling the company in 2017.