Trustees
Dr Marina Barnard
Chair/Convenor of the Board of Trustees
For over 20 years Marina worked in addictions research at the University of Glasgow. She led on research examining the impacts of drug misuse on children and families through extensive qualitative research interviews with grandparents, parents, brothers and sisters and with the children of parents with drug problems.
Her research interests have always been focused on trying to achieve practical ends, to engage media and policy and be involved with support groups. Marina has always taken a keen interest in the River Garden Project and previously worked as a volunteer.
David Kennedy
Deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees
I have lived in Troon since birth. Educated at Hartfield House in Ayr, Crawfordton House in Moniaive and Merchiston Castle School in Edinburgh. On leaving school I joined the Clydesdale Bank and worked there for the next 30 years before transferring to their parent company National Australia Bank for a further 4 years until leaving in late 2016. During my banking career I was awarded a Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Bankers in Scotland.
I then became the Bursar at Wellington School Ayr for 4 years until retiring in 2021. I am now a Governor at Wellington School. I am a passionate rugby supporter being a former player / captain at Marr & now spectator. I am also now a member of the Committee. Golf is now my main sport as a member of Royal Troon Golf Club. Other interests include walking with our dogs, keeping fit and holidaying in Majorca.
I am married to Robyn with two daughters who are now both in full time employment, post obtaining degrees at University. Very much looking forward to being involved in River Garden as it develops over the next few years.
Ian Fleming
Treasurer
Hello! I'm Ian, an accountant currently working in industry for a large facilities management company.
What drew me to this unique organisation was their distinctive approach in supporting residents in recovery from addiction. River Garden offers a space for individuals to plan their future, acquire new skills, and pursue new careers, all while fostering a strong sense of community.
The emphasis on building a legacy, both through social enterprises and changing attitudes towards addiction, resonated deeply with me. I'm here because I believe in the power of community and the transformative impact it can have on individuals and society at large.
Margaret Gibson OBE
Trustee
A long career in the charity sector with a focus on working with young people and women. Margaret has a passion for equity of opportunity and a particular interest in supporting people to achieve their full potential.
She has held senior roles in a number of organisations and is an award winning Director. She has volunteered as a mentor, Trustee or grant assessor for a range of organisations for over thirty years.
Margaret was the first woman in Scotland to be awarded the Queen's Award for Enterprise Promotion and had her dedication to supporting others recognised with an OBE in 2017.
She is a committed swimmer and cake eater.
