Member spotlight: Stephen Reynolds

Our members are dedicated to preserving our network of green lanes and we aim to recognise the contribution they make – whether this is through organising working parties to repair lanes, welcoming new members or liaising with police and local authorities. Our latest Member Spotlight is on Stephen Reynolds, the Essex Area Rep. He has been a member of the Association for five years and was previously Assistant Area Rep helping Essex stalwarts Rob Tongue and Ed Matthews before taking over as Area Rep earlier this year.

Q) Why did you decide to get more involved with GLASS and how have you found the experience?

A) I learned a lot from Ed and Rob. When I started as Assistant Area Rep I didn’t really understand what was involved, I just started doing what I could. It was something I loved doing. I have always run businesses and I approached it in the same way. At the moment, I’m putting a lot into it and it’s challenging me. There’s a lot of information to take in but I know that if I put the time in now, then I will feel in control of it.  I have always been a people person. I seem to get on with people, most of the time. I’ve taken it on as a challenge and it’s something that gets me out and about.

Q) Why do you enjoy laning?

A) A lot of it is down to mental health issues. I suffer from a bone disorder and I’ve spent lots of time in hospital. I’ve had two brain tumours removed when they turned cancerous so I don’t work as much as I used to. Laning has been an escape and it’s meant that I’ve been able to spend time with like-minded people.

Q) Why do you enjoy being an active GLASS member and getting more involved?

A) It’s like anything – if you use something you should put something back. If we don’t look after them, then lanes will be lost. I’ve been involved in lane clearances where we’ve cut back bracken and hedgerows to stop them getting overgrown. My plan, as Area Rep, is to assemble a team with a diverse range of skills and to utilise everyone. I want to work with as many different organisations as possible. We’ve been doing a lot with Essex Police and trying to build relationships with everyone we can.