Thirty years after he took up the role of Director of what was then called the North East Civic Trust, Graham Bell has announced his retirement from Cultura to coincide with its 60th anniversary in 2025. Graham succeeded Neville Whittaker, the first director, who also served for 30 years. Graham has led the Trust through many significant projects throughout the North East, North Yorkshire, Cumbria and beyond, which have preserved and enriched the fabric of the region. He will continue with his other personal roles in the UK, with Europa Nostra and across Europe.
Deborah Jenkins, Chair of Cultura, is taking on the executive leadership of the Trust during a transition period from 1st August, working with trustees to ensure the continuity of existing commitments and relationships, and to build the vision for the next stage of the Trust’s work. An important task in the coming months will be to celebrate the 60th anniversary, bringing together many of the people who have been involved with the Trust over six decades for a series of events in the autumn, reflecting on its history and future.
From 1st August, Graham is continuing as Project Advisor on existing projects on a part time basis until his official retirement. therefore, for all enquiries, please contact either deborah.jenkins@culturatrust.org or joan.robson@culturatrust.org
Deborah Jenkins, MBE,DL
Executive Chair