About Us

Carole Ann Hampson “I have lived in Quaking Houses since 1964. I went to Greenland Primary School, then Shield Row Secondary modern. I worked at Thomas De La Rues for 15 years, married and have 2 sons and 6 grandchildren. I am now a Durham County Councillor, Stanley Town Councillor and just finished a 2 year’s Mayoral Term in office.”

David Clarke “I have been involved with volunteering in the community, particularly in youth related projects, for several years. I’ve been a police officer in Durham Constabulary for over 25 years, working in a variety of different departments, however, particularly enjoy working in the community, working closely with young people to keep neighbourhoods safe for those who live there. I was part of the team who developed the youth café project in Stanley and Pact House, both of which had aims to bring the Police and Communities Together and to protect vulnerable people. I live in the Derwentside area with my wife and two children and have a wide range of hobbies and interests, including outdoor activities, live music and animal welfare.”

Bryan Fergus Irving "I am a writer, broadcaster and game designer who helped to set up and run DH9 Radio, Stanley's community radio. I teach broadcasting skills to those interested in learning about radio and how to present, produce and broadcast shows."

Darren McMahon "I started volunteering at the then 'South Moor Boys Club' aged 16 years old, continued through my college years coaching sports to young people and organising holiday activities. I qualified as a Level 3 youth worker and found myself working in many areas and clubs in the Stanley area . My heart lies in detached youth work as I feel this reaches out to young people who may not fit or feel able to access more traditional youth club models.  After being made redundant from Durham County Council I co-created STARS Youth and Community, a not-for-profit community interest company, in order to maintain a level of youth work support and a vehicle for youth workers to continue in and around the Stanley Area."

Rachel Anne McWaters "I have lived in Stanley since I was 9 years old and used to attend youth club. I am now a mother of 4 of various ages and I am keen for there to be local activities available for children in Stanley and the surrounding areas. I volunteer at PACT House and also support some of the fun and food activities."

Paula Murray Barrett "I've lived and worked in the Stanley community since I was 20. I've spent time as a youth worker, volunteer manager and fundraiser. I currently work at SHAID on an under 25s educational programme and do youthwork, support, advice and information from PACT House. I am a trustee at Stanley Young Peoples Club."

Kyle David Stafford "I've worked at Oxhill Youth Club for 7 years. I first became involved because I was training as a teaching assistant and wanted some work experience across different age groups. I found it to be like one big family, so I decided to stop. I love my job and find it very rewarding - although sometimes it is very challenging."

Victoria Walton “I am a born and bred Stanley lass and I'm passionate about improving our community. I currently manage Quaking Houses Village Hall Association, an affiliate member of SAYC. I am also a mother of 3 children and having studied Childhood Studies and Advice, Guidance and Counselling at Northumbria University, I am personally interested in supporting SAYC.”