Di retired several years ago after a career in education, first as a PE teacher and later as headteacher of a Pupil Referral Unit. She remains involved in education as Chair of Governors at a local primary school. Since retiring, she has volunteered at an Eco Market, where surplus food from supermarkets is collected and distributed to people in need. She also supports a project that turns used crisp packets into survival sheets for people experiencing homelessness.

Di holds several roles in Girlguiding and is a Unit Leader and NEE trainer. She recently completed her term as County Commissioner for Durham South and, during that time, served briefly on the Board of Trustees.

She has been an active member of Girlguiding since the age of 10, when she joined one of the country’s few Air Ranger units. Through this, she had the opportunity to take part in flying and gliding adventures.

Di has maintained her love of the outdoors and adventure, she strongly believes that girls today should have opportunities to experience both in a safe, caring environment. She is eager to see Waddow return to doing what it does best and is determined to do her part to help make that happen.