Meet Ambleside Chairman Heath Denney as he shares his career, family life, love of sport and hopes for the club’s next generation of members.
My name is Heath Denney, and I have had the pleasure of being Ambleside Chairman for the last 12 months. I have been on the committee for seven years, working on several projects, and taking over from John has certainly been an adventure.
I started my working life as a packer on the shop floor in the print trade in 1983, working for local companies around Coventry. I eventually progressed onto the full-colour press and was a machine minder for 10 years.
Over the years, I moved into management and became a Production Manager for Warwickshire County Council, where I worked for a total of 18 years.
My next step was to set up and run my own print management company. I am now the Managing Director of a mailing house in Kenilworth, working closely with local printers. We do a lot of work for pub chains, which keeps me extremely busy and close to my hobby: beer!
I am married to a wonderful lady called Nikki, who has put up with me for 33 years. We have three children: Lucas, Jack and Sophia. Both lads work together renovating bathrooms, doing plumbing and tiling, while Sophia is a reception teacher.
I am very proud of how our children have turned out, although I must admit that is mainly down to Nikki’s hard work.
We are working with all the sections to encourage people of every age to take part and enjoy these amazing facilities. As a charity focused on our local communities, that is what we are here for.
During the time I have left as Chairman, I hope we can move the club into an even healthier position for the next generation of members. Maybe we will even welcome a few more volunteers to the committee, bringing new ideas and fresh energy.
Outside club life, I am a huge Wolves fan, and football was a massive part of my younger years. I was lucky enough to play to a decent standard. Those who played against me will know I was always fair, polite and sporting on the pitch…
After reaching my footballing pinnacle, golf became my passion. I was lucky enough to play to a single-figure handicap and was a member of Nuneaton Golf Club for 18 years.
My latest passion is trying to extend Happy Hour at the club to at least five hours every Friday. Only joking!
Most Fridays, you will find me in my usual spot, right next to the bar, trying to amuse the punters who use the club. Feel free to come and say hello, although after 8 o’clock, I can’t promise I’ll make much sense. Apologies in advance!