Monday 15th July – The Witham Hall, Barnard Castle’s Community Arts Centre, held its Annual General Meeting.
This meeting saw Liz Bromley appointed as the new Chair, following Shelagh Avery’s stepping down. This transition marks a significant milestone for The Witham, a cornerstone of Culture, Community, and Commerce in Teesdale, and beyond.
New Leadership, New Horizons
Liz Bromley brings a fresh perspective and dynamic vision to the Barnard Castle Arts Centre. Although new to The Witham, Liz has lived in Barnard Castle for the past few years and has fallen in love with the area. Liz grew up on a farm in Cheshire and studied English at university. She has spent her career advocating for the arts and humanities in education, working primarily in universities and most recently as CEO of NCG, the UK’s only national Further Education group. Since relocating to Barnard Castle, Liz and her husband Andrew have enjoyed visiting The Witham and appreciating its contributions to local life. Liz characterises The Witham as a “community asset,” emphasising its role in fostering local culture and engagement.
Shelagh’s Legacy
Shelagh Avery became Chair in January 2019 after serving as the Interim Centre Director in 2018. Her tenure has been marked by significant achievements and unwavering dedication. Her commitment saw The Witham through a large deficit in 2018, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Under her leadership, The Witham has grown and thrived, establishing a firm foundation for future successes. Her background in change management, HR, and global talent acquisition has been invaluable. We are grateful that she will continue to serve as a trustee on the board, ensuring her valuable wisdom and experience are tapped into. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Shelagh for all her hard work and dedication over the past years.
Strategic Vision to 2030
During the AGM, Centre Director Amy Hughes and Liz Bromley presented their strategic vision for 2030. Their plan emphasised seven key themes, prioritising Financial Sustainability to enhance fundraising and resource management. Amy Hughes highlighted the importance of investing in people by upskilling staff and volunteers, engaging stakeholders more effectively, diversifying the cultural programme, strengthening community ties, maintaining the estate as a welcoming space, and embedding sustainability in all operations.
New Trustees
The board welcomed new trustees Ian Smith and Jo Turnbull to the board. Ian, a writer, and theatre producer with marketing expertise, brings creative insight to his role. Jo, a solicitor, and experienced non-executive director, offers valuable governance and legal expertise.