From a young age, Darren has held a deep-rooted passion for nature and wildlife. This lifelong affinity for the natural world eventually drew him to Exmoor’s unique, wild landscapes in 2007. His personal and professional life has been defined by dedication to the countryside, education, and conservation.
Darren brings a wealth of diverse experience to the Exmoor Society, having served on the Board of Trustees since 2022. A graduate with a BA (Hons) in Physical Education, his career spans over two decades across the training, education, and outdoor sectors. He has a proven track record of leadership and community service, including roles as a Director of the Exmoor Game School CIC and a former volunteer with HM Coastguard in Minehead and Porlock. Notably, Darren has a strong background in special education, working with children with autism. His continued commitment to this field is reflected in his role on the local board of governors for a local special school.
An accomplished leader on both a local and international scale, Darren has led expeditions around the world. Working for the UN Trade Council in Africa, he upskilled local people to become professional tourist guides, enabling them to generate a sustainable income and support their families. Back in the UK, he has been instrumental in shaping national standards for the outdoor sector, working with bodies such as British Canoeing as an External Quality Assurance Officer. His entrepreneurial and problem-solving capabilities were also highlighted during his time as Director of the Channel Group, where he successfully helped scale a two-person operation into one of the outdoor sector’s most respected companies.
An avid outdoorsman, Darren spends his spare time fly fishing on the rivers and coastlines of Devon, spearfishing, and kayaking. Having spent a lifetime outdoors, seeing the profound impact nature and wild places can have on an individual powerfully motivates him to help children understand how to safely access and enjoy the countryside for themselves.
As Vice Chair, Darren combines his profound connection to Exmoor’s wildlife with his extensive expertise in education, governance, and community empowerment to help preserve, protect, and promote Exmoor’s unique heritage for future generations.