Our Trustees

Andrew Dumbleton has had M.E. since he was 18, but he's only lived in Sheffield since October 2006. Originally from Banbury in Oxfordshire, Andrew used to do voluntary work for the charity Adoption U.K.

Clare Elderkin used to work as a Sales Executive in the steel industry and as a part time DJ before falling ill with M.E./CFS. Sheffield M.E. Group helped her enormously when she was at her worst and she says it would now be nice to give something back. She has varied interests, including playing the guitar and designing websites, as well as her Curly-Haired Tarantula and Californian King Snake! Clare is also Sheffield M.E. Group's Webmaster. Visit her personal website.

Ute Elliott has been Chair since the year 2000 and has enjoyed developing the group, helping people and making new friends. Ute's main interests are classical music, gardening, and her three cats.

Kathy Harbord became a trustee in 2005, having moved to Sheffield from Kent. She was a teacher for 20 years but had to retire on grounds of ill health because of M.E. She enjoys yoga, gardening, and a variety of crafts. Kathy is the Treasurer of Sheffield M.E. Group.

Having had M.E. since 1993, Chris Wintle feels very lucky to be working part time as Assistant Manager for Chesterfield and District Shopmobility. Having been a trustee for Chesterfield M.E. Support Group some years ago, he now feels ready to make a contribution in Sheffield. Chris says "Unfortunately, some members may have heard my Les Dawson piano playing on Radio Sheffield around Christmas time - I must learn to play properly..." Chris is Sheffield M.E. Group's Vice Chair.

Val Gibson has had M.E. now for some time and took ill health retirement from Social Services as a Residential Manager. Over the years she has found Sheffield M.E. Group to be friendly and supportive. Val has decided to rejoin the committee and wishes to contribute to the future development of the Group.

David Ashmore first realised that he was unwell after the experience of coming home from holiday and discovering that he could not stay awake or concentrate. He now wishes to help and inform other people with M.E. so that they will not feel as though they are alone.

Carol Binks was diagnosed with M.E. over three years ago and would like to offer moral support to other people with the illness. Originally from a Sales and Marketing background, Carol is now a full-time mother. We are very pleased to welcome her to the committee.

Ian Stuart first developed M.E. around 1990. He previously worked in the Manpower Service buildings, handling contracts on behalf of the Department of Education. Bringing marketing and publicity skills to the committee, Ian helped to organise many events and exhibitions in his working life. We are very pleased to have him as part of our management team.