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Parkinson’s UK

Horsham

This is Horsham Branch

Our aim is to help people with Parkinson's, their families, friends and caregivers throughout the Horsham area.

we organise Meetings and Activities

Some of the People active in running the Branch

Mike Onley

chair

I grew up in Southeast Devon and studied marine biology at Swansea University, graduating in 1981. Unable to pursue a career with dolphins, I joined the RAF in 1982 and served for 16 years, primarily flying the Nimrod surveillance aircraft as a Captain. After a staff tour at HQ Strike Command, I transitioned to British Airways in 1997, flying various aircraft and eventually becoming a captain on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

I now reside in Billingshurst with my wife, Sara, and our German Collie, Bella. My daughter, Sophie, works as a teaching assistant in Teesside. Despite slowing down, I still enjoy walking, table tennis, water sports, and chess. My flying career ended abruptly when I was diagnosed with PD in June 2019 at the age of 60.

After the initial shock and disappointment, I decided to get involved with the PDUK charity and joined the Horsham Branch in 2021.

Dennis Saunders

Treasurer

Born in Swindon, my mother had Parkinson's when she was 42 and I was 18. I earned an engineering degree from Bristol University and worked as an engineer for 38 years. Happily married to Janet for over 47 years, we've lived in Horsham for 44 years. Retired in 2009, I became Treasurer in 2010 and have served for nearly 15 years. I volunteered with CAB for over 12 years, helping with blue badge schemes and benefits. I organise collections and outings for a cause dear to me.

Carole Matthews

Membership secretary

Carol as our membership secretary, please contact using this form if you would like to become a branch member

Jeremy Collyer

Website/Newsletter

Jeremy, a former consultant surgeon for the NHS who was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2012, advocates for the advantages of exercise in managing the condition. Since retiring from medical practice, he dedicates his time to riding his e-bike and engaging in photography and video creation. He currently serves as the newsletter editor and research representative for the Horsham branch.

To contact Jeremy click here

Emma Brinton

Co-ordinator- working age group, boxing and boxercise, PD warrior, yoga

Emma started her professional life at Eurostar as bilingual customer relations rep and then as sales exec. Whilst raising two children with her husband she moved to  secondary Education; working mainly in Inclusion, specifically children with ASD and then as Home School Link Worker and Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Following her PD diagnosis; Emma now works on an ad hoc basis as an exam invigilator.
She manages the Working Age Group and is involved in organising and promoting key activities within the group.She prioritises exercise into her daily regime; tennis being her main passion. She has two spaniels and enjoys spending time on walks with them.

To contact Emma click here

Cath Stead

Co-ordinator

Sue West

Co-ordinator

I grew up in the Croydon area and studied Civil Engineering at Southampton. As a consulting engineer I enjoyed working overseas notably in South America and Eastern Europe. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2004 I had deep brain stimulation in 2014 which greatly improved my quality of life.

Since taking early retirement I have divided by time between Parkinson’s UK, the church, my sheep (I have 10 Shetland sheep, but that’s another story) and enjoying myself. I have aways been active and try not to let Parkinson’s get the better of me. My latest hobby is stand up paddle boarding.

I live in Horsham with Coco the rabbit.

Maija Bruce

Co-ordinator

Paul Dodd

Co-ordinator