Rev. Clare Le Marchant Connell – Founder

Clare Le Marchant Connell founded the Peter Le Marchant Trust in memory of her brother in 1976. She retired from being a vicar after practising for over three decades in the Parish of Wiverton, but continues to run a farm and an award-winning dairy.

Caroline Phillips - Chair

Caroline Phillips cut her teeth at the BBC as a broadcast journalist, and has since spent over 25 years in marketing, business, and media production. She has two sons, and believes passionately in optimising people’s health, well-being and education. Her first children’s picture book, The Rotters, was published in 2023. 

“When I first visited the Peter Le Marchant Trust in 2021, I was struck by its welcoming team and uplifting tranquil location. It is an honour to be part of such a dedicated group of volunteers, staff and trustees.” 

Russell Price – Vice-chair

Russell is the managing director of Samworth Farms Ltd, a diversified farming business which includes arable farming, commercial property, self-storage, renewable energy, and crop storage.

Russell chairs a charitable foundation focused on less advantaged young people in Nottinghamshire, is a trustee of Uppingham School and was the founding chairman of the Trent Valley Internal Drainage Board.

“It’s evident to see the enormous positive impact that being on and around water has on passengers’ wellbeing, and it brings great pleasure to be a part of the team that enables this.”

Charles Moore FCIB – Trustee

After a 30-year career in corporate banking, in 2001 Charles established a successful Executive Recruitment Consultancy representing major corporates specialising in banking, accountancy and law. He became a Trust volunteer in 2001, and after years of crewing obtained a Boatmasters Licence, which led to skippering the Trust’s boats for 12 years. In 2009 he became a Trustee and has since been actively involved in its management, bringing his knowledge of finance, law, accountancy, and HR. 

“Having been involved in the Trust for over 20 years both as a volunteer and a director, I have always strived to make a difference for both our clients and volunteers and also ensure the success of the Trust. I enjoy travel, photography, and the Rotary Club, which has been a big part of my life for some 30 years.”

Janie Martin – Trustee

to be added

Venetia Francklin – Trustee

Venetia has been a Trustee since 2010. Over the years, she has raised funds and the profiles of a number of charities, including Children Fighting Cancer (formerly The Paul O'Gorman Foundation), Reach UK, which supports adults with learning disabilities, and The Children’s Trust, where she had first-hand support for her daughter.

“I enjoy the positivity and enthusiasm of everyone who is involved at the Trust. The boat trips bring such joy. It is the most wonderful experience, particularly for someone in a wheelchair.” 

Tom Hanmer – Trustee

Appointed as a Trustee in 2014, Tom specialises in filmmaking, working as a freelance editor in London, and director of photography. He has worked in Africa, Asia and Los Angeles. He has also spent several years as a farmer, and is currently setting up a permaculture farm in Dorset. 

“I am lucky enough to live deep in nature and celebrate anything that allows access to the outdoors for those that may find it hard. The Peter Le Marchant Trust does that in buckets.”