Our new shop managers are ready for business!
It’s an exciting day for Derian House retail, with our four shops across Lancashire back open for business after 14 weeks of lockdown restrictions forcing us to close up.
As we enter an exciting new era, we have two brand new shop managers in Leyland Preston taking the helm. Although you may not see them here at the hospice very often, please say hello and introduce yourselves if you see them in store.
Lyndsey Gornall (Leyland Shop Manager)
Our new Leyland Shop Manager previously worked, for many years, as a pet shop manager in St Helens. Prior to getting her new role at Derian House, Lyndsey also worked as a production manager for a beanbag manufacturer.
She also has a very personal connection to the hospice, as her step daughter Emily visits us for respite, and therefore Lyndsey has supported us for a long time. She knows firsthand just what we mean to families, and has a lot of love for the services that we provide.
When the shops reopen today, Lyndsey is most looking forward to getting the community spirit back and promoting Derian House to our lovely customers!
Outside of work, Lyndsey is finishing a languages degree in the evenings – she can speak an impressive three languages! Between her and her partner, they have five children which keep them busy, alongside two skunks, three cats, a Rottweiler, a Pomeranian, a snake, and a lizard!
Matt Mears (Preston Shop Manager)
Our new Preston Shop Manager has worked in the travel industry for most of his life, and actually worked with our Chief Exec, David, which is how he knew about Derian House.
Matt saw a clip about us on North West Tonight which sparked an interest in how Derian has grown over the years, and in turn led him to apply for the job at our Preston store. He’s looking forward to putting his own stamp on the shop as it wasn’t open long before going into lockdown, so it’s an exciting opportunity for he and his team.
He also has a background in vinyl, so is looking to expand our Discogs network and get some more records on sale in our shops. He’s looking forward to meeting new people and getting customers in the store!
Matt has three children between him and his partner, and loves going to gigs and camping when he can. Interestingly, both himself and Lyndsey are taking on ‘Dive for Derian’ this summer… it must be an initiation for new members of our retail team!