Taking the helm
Meet our board of trustees
The Society is fortunate to have an excellent Board of Trustees with a wide range of knowledge, experience and expertise.
Philip Wake OBE
Chairman
Philip Wake OBE
Chairman
Philip served at sea in the Merchant Navy for 11 years before moving ashore, where he became a Director at Clarkson Research Studies and later Chief Executive of The Nautical Institute. He also served in the Royal Naval Reserve for 26 years and is currently, in retirement, the part-time Business Manager for a residential music course.
Philip is Chairman of our Society, a Vice President of the RNLI, and a Younger Brother of Trinity House, London. He was awarded the OBE in the 2016 New Year’s Honours List for services to the maritime industry.
Captain Steve Clinch MNM
Vice Chairman
Captain Steve Clinch MNM
Vice Chairman
Steve has been a Trustee of the Society since 2018 and serves as Vice Chairman of the Board. He brings over 50 years of experience in the maritime sector, including his role as former Head of the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch.
Steve is committed to maintaining the Society’s proud legacy of care for retired seafarers. He sits on the Finance and Investments Committees, as well as the Fundraising Sub-Committee. Outside of the Society, Steve balances maritime voluntary work with grandparent duties.
Mr Bernie Watson FCA DChA
Honorary Treasurer
Mr Bernie Watson FCA DChA
Honorary Treasurer
Bernie spent over 30 years as a partner at London accountancy firm HaysMac, including 12 years as Managing Partner. He later specialised in the not-for-profit sector, working with many charities – including Royal Alfred – as a trusted advisor.
Since retiring in 2018, Bernie has held the position of Finance Trustee across five charities and became our Honorary Treasurer in May 2019.
Captain Adrian McCourt MNM
Captain Adrian McCourt MNM
Adrian has spent over 50 years in and around merchant ships, progressing from life at sea to senior roles in fleet management, the superyacht sector, and marine insurance.
He has been a Trustee of the Society since 2015 and says, “The sea has been good to me, and I’d like to give something back. I can’t think of a more deserving maritime cause – it’s a privilege to serve at Royal Alfred.”
Commander Susan Lochner JP DL RN
Commander Susan Lochner JP DL RN
Susan served as an administrative officer in the Royal Navy for 23 years, qualifying as a barrister and holding several legal appointments. A highlight of her career was serving as Admiral’s Secretary on HM Yacht Britannia.
After leaving the Navy, Susan became Home Bursar at Exeter College, Oxford, overseeing all non-academic matters. Since moving to Surrey, she has been a presiding magistrate on the Guildford Bench, chaired the Surrey Magistrates Association, and served as churchwarden in Godalming. She was appointed Deputy Lieutenant of Surrey in 2013 and joined the Royal Alfred board in 2016.
Mr Andy Parker MNM
Mr Andy Parker MNM
Andy is a retired Seagoing Chief Engineer and Senior Fleet Superintendent, who spent the final decade of his career managing shipbuilding projects around the world.
He became a Trustee of the Society in 2014 and sits on the Safeguarding, Care and Welfare Committee - a role he holds dear. Andy brings a wealth of experience in project management, budget control, and people leadership, which he sees as his way of giving back to a cause he cares deeply about.
Dr Richard Reubin MB, ChB
Dr Richard Reubin MB, ChB
Richard qualified in medicine from the University of Birmingham in 1973. After hospital work and GP training, an unexpected call from the shipping company P&O led him to join a passenger ship bound for Australia - and a few weeks turned almost eight years as a Ship’s Surgeon.
Following his time at sea, Richard spent the rest of his career in NHS General Practice, retiring in 2020 shortly before his 71st birthday. He has served as a Society Trustee since 2005.
Dorothy A. Ross-Tomlin MCIPS (Hon. Alderwoman)
Dorothy A. Ross-Tomlin MCIPS (Hon. Alderwoman)
Dorothy was first introduced to the Society during her term as Mayor of Reigate & Banstead in 2007-2008. Originally from Wick, her career in purchasing was mostly with the British Airports Authority, progressing from Glasgow Airport to London head office. Later, she worked as a freelance consultant with clients including Eurotunnel, Heathrow Airport, and Royal & Sun Alliance.
Dorothy served her community for over 25 years as a Borough and County Councillor, developing strong local connections and a deep understanding of care quality standards. She’s proud to use these to help promote the Society’s work.
Dr Alison Lewis-Smith DClinP MA BA(Hons)
Dr Alison Lewis-Smith DClinP MA BA(Hons)
Alison trained as a nurse at St Thomas’ Hospital and went on to work in a range of healthcare settings both in the UK and abroad – including ten years in the Merchant Navy. Her most recent full-time role was as a Chief Nurse.
Alison is passionate about person-centred care, safeguarding vulnerable children and adults, and staff development. She brings experience from several charity committees and healthcare governance boards, and volunteers locally. She recently became a grandmother.
Commodore Melanie Robinson CBE FCIPD RN
Commodore Melanie Robinson CBE FCIPD RN
Melanie has over 30 years’ service in the Royal Navy and joined the Board of Trustees in 2024. Her expertise spans leadership, strategic HR, cultural transformation and finance management.
Outside her role with the Society, Melanie is a Leadership Consultant and Executive Coach. She is also a Board Director for the Hampshire Football Association and Independent Chair of its Inclusion Advisory Group.
Captain Brett Smith AFNI MCMI FIAMCS AFRIN AssocRINA
Captain Brett Smith AFNI MCMI FIAMCS AFRIN AssocRINA
Brett began his Merchant Navy cadetship in 1989 with Maersk, working across LPG, product tankers, and anchor handling tug supply vessels. He later gained his Master’s Unlimited and commanded vessels for Foreland Shipping in the Falkland Islands and Umm Qasr, Iraq - as part of the Ministry of Defence’s Joint Rapid Reaction Force (JRRF) and Strategic Sealift Service.
Since 2010, Brett has worked in the superyacht sector, now serving as Senior Fleet Master. He is a Younger Brother of Trinity House, London, and an active fundraiser for the Scarborough RNLI.
Meet our co-opted members of the Safeguarding, Care and Welfare Committee
Captain Malcolm Lowle
Captain Malcolm Lowle
Mr Jim Ross-Tomlin
Mr Jim Ross-Tomlin
Jim brings a wealth of commercial experience, having lead teams of up to 100 employees during his career. His strong people management and HR skills have been developed over many years and are invaluable to the Society.
He also brings knowledge of health and safety practices and currently volunteers with First Community Health and Care CIC in several roles, including the “Falls Group.”
Mrs Di Parker
Mrs Di Parker
Diana is a retired teacher with 35 years of experience. She led a special needs department in a mainstream school, where she was responsible for programme planning, managing a team of 25 teaching assistants, and delivering training for parents, and SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) specialist staff across the district.
She became a co-opted member of the Safeguarding, Care and Welfare Committee in 2015. A natural carer, and with both a husband and a son who went to sea, Diana brings heartfelt understanding of the needs of retired seafarers.
On a cold, wet day there is nothing better than keeping active indoors and table tennis was the perfect choice. 🏓
Activities like this are great for both physical and mental wellbeing. They help with coordination, gentle exercise, concentration, and social connection, as well as bringing plenty of laughter and friendly competition. It was lovely to see residents enjoying themselves and making the most of the day together.
#ActiveAgeing #Wellbeing #StayingActive #IndoorActivities #CommunityLife #LaterLife #MakingTheMostOfTheDay
Feb 26
Earlier this month we said a fond farewell to two much-valued colleagues as we marked their final day with us and presented them with a small token of our appreciation.
Lyn, our wonderful Chef, is retiring after 3 years of dedicated service. Her hard work, warmth, and the pride she took in looking after others through her cooking has meant so much to residents and colleagues alike. She will be greatly missed, and we wish her a long, happy, and well-earned retirement.
Andy, our Tenant Liaison Lead, is heading off to discover new opportunities. During his time with us, Andy has made a real difference through his approachability, professionalism, and genuine care for tenants. We thank him for everything he has contributed and wish him every success in the next chapter.
Thank you both for your service, dedication, and the positive impact you’ve had. You leave with our sincere thanks and very best wishes for the future. 💐
#ThankYou #Farewell #Retirement #NewBeginnings #TeamAppreciation #ServiceAndDedication #Grateful
Feb 25
We were incredibly moved to receive this card from the family of a resident we had the honour of caring for.
Looking after someone in their final years is a responsibility we never take for granted. Knowing that our care, kindness and time made a difference to both the resident and their loved ones means everything to our team.
Thank you for your trust, and for taking the time to share such kind words 🤍
#Grateful #ProudToCare #DignityInCare #Compassion #CareWithKindness #MakingADifference #TeamWork
Feb 24
A splash of colour and a lot of smiles 🎨
Our residents had a lovely time painting pebbles, getting creative and enjoying each other’s company. It’s always wonderful to see how simple activities can spark conversation, laughter and a real sense of calm.
Some beautiful little works of art were created today and every one of them tells a story 💙
#ResidentsActivities #CreativeMoments #ArtAndWellbeing #CommunityLife #MakingMemories #CareHomeLife
Feb 23
Liz led a wonderful jewellery-making activity recently, and it was an absolute hit with everyone involved. Residents really got stuck in, sharing ideas, chatting away, and creating some beautiful pieces to take away and treasure.
Huge thanks to Liz for leading such a joyful session. Activities like this aren’t just about what’s made, but the smiles, laughter, and connections created along the way. 💎
#MeaningfulActivities #CreativityAtAnyAge #Community #MakingMemories
Feb 22
🧧🐉 Happy Chinese New Year! 🐉🧧
On Tuesday we welcomed the Year of the Horse (2026) with a wonderful celebration full of delicious food, colour and community spirit here at The Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society.
Our talented kitchen team prepared a special festive menu for residents to enjoy:
🥢 Lunch
Hong Kong Style Sweet & Sour Chicken with Egg Fried Rice
or
Beef & Black Bean Chow Mein
🍰 Dessert
Pancakes with Lemon & Sugar
or
Strawberries & Chocolate Sauce
🥣 Supper
Chinese Chicken Noodle Soup
Assorted Chinese Buffet Selection
🥭 Dessert
Chinese Mango Delight
The dining room looked fantastic, and it was lovely to see residents coming together to celebrate, share stories, and enjoy something a little different. Food has such a special way of bringing people together — and today was a perfect example of that.
A big thank you to our catering team for creating such a wonderful experience for everyone.
Wishing all our residents, families and friends health, happiness and prosperity for the year ahead. 🧧✨
#ChineseNewYear #YearOfTheHorse #RoyalAlfredSeafarers #CommunityCelebration #CareHomeLife
Feb 21
After 17 years of dedicated service, we recently said a very fond farewell to Shirley, our Housekeeping Manager and a truly valued member of our team.
Shirley’s commitment, professionalism and pride in her work have helped shape this home into the place it is today. She has led by example, supported and mentored others, and quietly gone above and beyond every single day, all while maintaining the highest standards and a genuine care for the people around her.
Her loyalty and work ethic speak for themselves, but it is her kindness, humour and calm presence that so many of us will miss most. Shirley leaves behind not just a legacy of excellent housekeeping, but a team she has helped nurture and prepare for the future.
We thank Shirley for everything she has given over the past 17 years and wish her a happy, healthy and well deserved retirement. She will always be part of the fabric of this home 💐
#Retirement
#ThankYouShirley
#LongService
#HousekeepingHero
#TeamAppreciation
#WellDeserved
#Grateful
Feb 20
🥞 Shrove Tuesday Treat! 🥞
On Tuesday we were thoroughly spoiled as Chef Pattie treated all the staff to freshly made pancakes for Shrove Tuesday!
There’s nothing quite like the smell of pancakes cooking to bring everyone together, and Pattie didn’t disappoint. From classic lemon and sugar to a few indulgent extras, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
It’s these small but thoughtful gestures that make such a difference to our team. A huge thank you to Pattie for taking the time to look after us while we look after our wonderful residents.
We hope everyone had a flipping fantastic Shrove Tuesday! 💛
#ShroveTuesday #TeamAppreciation #ThankYouChef #BelvedereHouse
Feb 19
