For the past few years, Gary and Noreen Kennedy have shared the role of Director without Portfolio, and in true partnership style, they’ve shown that two heads really are better than one. Together, they’ve played a big part in many of British Naturism’s recent achievements, not least the creation of our blossoming Northern Ireland Region as an independent entity.
Now, Noreen has decided that it’s time to step back from her co-Director duties, but don’t mistake that for a farewell. Far from it. When the Northern Ireland Region was first finding its feet, Kev O’Connor took on the role of Regional Organiser, helping to guide it through those early days. From the outset, Kev was clear that he saw himself as a caretaker, someone to nurture the roots before handing over the reins.
With the region now thriving, that moment has come. Kev has stepped aside, and Noreen has stepped forward to take up the role of Regional Organiser. And it hasn’t taken long for her trademark energy to make an impact. From the success of the Great British Skinny Dips at Portstewart — proudly championed by the National Trust — to her engagement with representatives at Stormont, Noreen is already making her mark.
So, while we say goodbye to Noreen the Director, we say a very warm hello to Noreen the Regional Organiser. Our heartfelt thanks go to Kev for his work in helping Northern Ireland find its own regional identity — and our best wishes to Noreen as she leads it into what promises to be an exciting future.
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