Meet our Team of Directors
Clair Abrey
I joined Buy Local Norfolk as a Virtual Assistant and straight away I was made to feel welcome and included. I love that BLN is run by local businesses for the benefit of members, focusing on supporting the fantastic range of diverse and independent small businesses that Norfolk has to offer. I wanted to be a Director as BLN’s principles and beliefs align closely with my own. I love being a part of everything that BLN stands for and wants to achieve. At my core I’m a helper and bring with me over 20 years of admin experience, fresh eyes and, hopefully, some inspiring ideas.
Peter Bussey
My career in accountancy came about after spending 2 years travelling around the world aged 18. In 2017, after 30 years in commercial accounting, I decided to venture out as a sole practitioner and Abacus Accountancy was launched. In addition to being a Director of Buy Local Norfolk, I am also a Director for the Eastern Landlords Association. And since 2010 I have been Treasurer for Shine, a wonderful charity based in Great Yarmouth providing nursery and day care facilities for children with special needs. Finally, I am very proud to be a ‘gold’ blood donor after achieving my ‘100’ target.
James Martin
I was born in West Runton on the beautiful North Norfolk coast after my parents moved from London. I grew up in Watton and finally settled in Thorpe St Andrew with my wife, children, and two mad spaniels. After running two independent businesses, I set up my own family confectionery business in 2021 called Sweet Smiles of Norfolk. I love meeting other amazing businesses at local events, which is why I was so keen to become a Director of Buy Local Norfolk. Buying from an independent local business is such a rewarding experience, knowing that no matter how small the transaction, you are making a real difference.
Chris Lewer
Although I was born in London, I’ve lived in Norfolk most of my life, growing up in Hethersett. My wife is Australian and we have a second home on Magnetic Island, just off the coast of North Queensland. But my heart is in Norfolk and we are happily settled in Thorpe St Andrew. I run Clarity Digital, a digital agency specialising in website development, hosting and SEO. Although Clarity has clients across the UK and overseas, I gain particular satisfaction from working with local businesses. Buy Local Norfolk is a valuable resource for Norfolk businesses, one that offers a real opportunity to build strong local relationships.
April Dace
I was born and raised in Norwich and after a stint in London I’m back in Norfolk bringing up my family and building my business, April Dace Jewellery. Growing up I moved all over the county and have lots of fond memories of Norfolk. I’ve worked for small local businesses since I was 16 and my Dad was a furniture maker with his own factory in Loddon, so I was (without realising it at the time) being exposed to ‘business life’ and the people behind those businesses from a young age. I love all that Norfolk and its businesses have to offer and I’m super excited to get to know our BLN members!
Davina Bamber
I absolutely love the business community in Norfolk and when the opportunity arose for me to become a director I knew it was the role for me. Building meaningful relationships and connections is one of my main core values and that is epitomised in the Buy Local Norfolk group. I set up my own business, Woman Who Can, in 2018 and have found the Norfolk business community to be welcoming and supportive. I’ve always loved business – it’s my passion and I could talk about it all day. I bring over 20 years of customer focussed support to the Buy Local Norfolk board. I also bring my passion for Norwich City F.C!
Mary Doggett
I’m the owner/photographer at ETT Photography, and am lucky to have worked with many incredible Norfolk businesses over the years. As a firm believer that you get back what you give out in life, I was attracted to join Buy Local Norfolk by the strong ethos that if we all help each other in business, we will all thrive. But it’s not just about financially thriving, it’s about feeling supported as part of a wider business community. I also think excellent networking groups should provide lots of opportunities to learn, develop and grow your business. As a director of Buy Local I hope I can bring practical support to businesses to do just that.