We’re a group of local people who love Newbold Comyn
The FoNC is an unincorporated association with a committee made up of seven local people. Variously, we’re walkers, horse riders, cyclists, dog walkers and lovers of nature.
Collectively we’ve explored the Comyn, wandered around it for hours, taken our dogs, our horses, our friends and our children and crossed every part of it. We have an emotional connection with it and a vested interest in it.
We have a stated aim which is to preserve and protect the Comyn by liaising with the current owners – Warwick District Council. We want to make sure that the people who use it today can make their own memories of it, just like we have.
Chairman – Sean Russell
Sean Russell – bio to be added
Secretary – Kate Pittel:
I’ve walked my dogs around Newbold Comyn since 1995 when it was still pretty wild, and I’ve spent a lot of time campaigning against dog control orders in the District. I love the amount of unrestricted space we have there – it’s heaven for dogs and their owners – and I hope it never becomes too manicured or over-developed. It’s beautiful just how it is.
Treasurer – Paul Gilligan:
I often walk across the Comyn into town for work and leisure. I enjoy seeing the seasons change and love how that is reflected in the activities, flora and fauna of the Comyn. I work in sustainability so I have a keen interest in how we can live more in balance with nature. Newbold Comyn is a really special place that should be available for all to enjoy.
Committee members
Sue Wharton
I live in Warwick with my husband and my cat. I moved to the area in 1995, and brought up two children here. I lecture part-time at Warwick University and look after a horse for Redwings Horse Sanctuary, under their rehoming scheme. I love riding on the Comyn, and hugely appreciate this open, lightly managed space that everyone can enjoy.
Christy Wannop
I was brought up in Kenilworth and I’ve lived in Leamington Spa on and off since 1978. I’m a social worker, although largely retired now and I’ve brought up two children in this area. I live a short walk from the Comyn so it was our place of exercise and relaxation throughout their childhood. During Covid, the Comyn came to mean so much to people because it’s a safe, shared space to be free. It’s a treasure.
Kristy Ward
We moved to beautiful Leamington nearly 10 years ago and were thrilled to find the amazing open spaces of Newbold Comyn. We’re there every day regardless of weather, along with a welcoming and inclusive community of walkers, horse riders, football players, cyclists and dog owners.
We’re so lucky to have this space and I’m keen to ensure it remains a safe and friendly area for all to use, with minimal development and a focus on the natural environment that sustains so many local residents on a daily basis.