We are delighted to announce that Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk Michael Gurney has become patron of St Martins.
Michael grew up and lives at Northrepps, near Cromer and has spent much of his life in Norfolk. His appointment as Vice Lord-Lieutenant is a civic role representing the Crown’s lifelong commitment to the wellbeing of the entire community. Michael’s commitment to both Norfolk and to the local community makes him a fitting patron for St Martins who support some of the most vulnerable people in Norwich and surrounding areas.
Chief Executive of St Martins Dr Jan Sheldon said, “We are thrilled that Michael has taken up this role as patron of St Martins. For many years he has expressed enthusiasm for our mission to support people out of homelessness as well as a deep concern for the people we support.”
Michael’s contribution to the local community is evident; he is on the Employment Advisory Board of HMP Norwich and the Development Committee for Norfolk Citizens Advice.
“Michael understands some of the challenges we face as an organisation we hope his role as patron will help boost our visibility and local networks” said Jan. “We have close to 200 team members and we support over 300 people at any one time. We all look forward to Michael joining our team.”
St Martins was established in 1972 and is well renowned in Norfolk. The charity had the honour of receiving Freedom of the City in 2023, a title bestowed by Norwich City Council that recognises their contribution to the city of Norwich over many years.
About Michael Gurney
Michael went to Sandhurst at 17 and served in the Blues & Royals for 13 years including tours in Northern Ireland and two years on loan service in Oman.
Michael then worked in marketing and advertising initially in London and then in Norfolk. He was a founder of the Point Agency in Norwich and worked there for 25 years until 2019 in areas as diverse as agriculture and finance, dementia testing and advanced engineering.
He lives on the diversified family farm near Cromer and started the North Norfolk Business Centre.
He has served on the Diocesan Board of Finance; as a trustee of the Norfolk Community Foundation and on the strategy boards of Norwich4jobs and the Norwich Business School.
He is married with three children and seven grandchildren. He enjoys walking round Norfolk and paints badly!