The trustees
Trustees of the Dacon Trust
Shirley
After retiring as a Family Law Solicitor, Shirley joined the Dacon Trust as a Trustee.
“As a Trustee, I love having a unique insight into how the Dacon Trust is run. It’s very different from the other provisions here in the Colchester area.”
Shirley was eager to become a Trustee after her son Jamie, started attending regular sessions here at Level Best. She has loved seeing the development of the new cafe and what a huge difference that it has made to the facilities available to our young people to develop their skills.
Her favourite part of being a Trustee is getting to see how much everyone at the community hub benefits from being together, and she always looks forward to the Christmas party and other events where everyone can meet and celebrate.
If Shirley were a trainee at Level Best, she’d definitely be most excited about horticulture, although only on sunny days!
Dan
Dan has many years of experience in the finance industry. After working as a Finance Director for Billington Bioenergy back in 2016, Dan has since worked in a variety of roles at Drax Group, most recently Head of Business Finance.
“It’s so rewarding watching everyone at the community hub have such a good time. Oh, and the cake is absolutely fabulous!”
Dan helps manage the Trust’s finances and supports Level Best in budgeting for exciting new projects. He was keen to get involved with the opening of the new centre on St John’s Street and help his wife Vicky (another Trustee!). If Dan was a trainee at Level Best, he would love to get stuck in with the seasonal sessions, as he already makes home-brewed beer in his own time!
Katie
Katie currently works in the Private Client sector and is a senior associate at Roythornes Solicitors. As a senior associate in the Private Client team, Katie specialises in advising on and preparing Wills, Trusts and Lasting Powers of Attorney, as well as estate administrations for large and complex estates, and lifetime tax planning.
“I enjoy hearing about what the trainees have been doing, and just how much they enjoy and benefit from the services offered by the Trust”
After initially getting involved with the Dacon Trust in 2014 by taking the minutes of the trustee meetings, Katie jumped at the chance to join the committee herself. If Katie was a trainee at Level Best, she would jump straight into the kitchen as she absolutely loves eating cake!
Alex
Alex has extensive experience in property acquisition and project management, developed over many years working across the real estate sector. He is passionate about collaboration and delivering projects that make a real difference to people’s lives.
Alex first became involved with the Trust through Colchester Round Table 367, where he discovered a love for community-focused initiatives. Inspired by the positive impact Level Best has on individuals and families, he was keen to get involved and support the charity’s mission.
“It’s fantastic to see the sense of community and growth at Level Best, there’s always something new to learn, and the energy is infectious. Plus, the food is always a highlight!”
Alex helps the Trust with property matters and supports Level Best in developing new spaces for learning and connection. If Alex was a Trainee at Level Best, he’d be found in the kitchen, getting involved with the cooking sessions. A keen home cook, he’s often at the barbecue or sourcing the best ingredients from his local butcher.
Gareth
Gareth has many years’ experience working in local government in Colchester and now spends his time making a difference in the local community through his voluntary roles. He is a trustee of a young persons’ charity and volunteers at Colchester Foodbank.
“Level Best is a joyful place where everyone is included and where creativity and learning flourish. I love that I am able to play a small part in this remarkable community as a trustee!”
Having been a happy customer at the previous Level Best café, Gareth was delighted when he was asked to become a trustee of the Dacon Trust.
If Gareth was a trainee at Level Best, he would fit right in with the seasonal project as he loves being outdoors and eating jams and chutneys in equal measure!
Simon
Simon King is a wellbeing and public health professional with extensive experience in community development, strategic implementation and early intervention. In his current role as Wellbeing and Public Health Lead – Communities at Essex County Council, he oversees programmes that harness local strengths through asset-based community development, improve health outcomes and reduce inequalities.
Simon joined The Dacon Trust in autumn 2025, motivated by a strong belief in inclusive opportunities for people with learning disabilities.
“Level Best offers life-changing support,” he says. “I wanted to contribute to an organisation that helps people grow in confidence and independence.”
He brings a practical, community-focused perspective to the Board and is committed to supporting the continued growth and impact of Level Best.
