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 ventured 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 in Great Yarmouth providing nursery and day care facilities for children with special needs. Finally, I am 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.
Glynn Burrows
I would definitely describe myself as a true Norfolk Dumpling, with Norfolk roots going back to the 16th century. Having been fascinated with family and local history since childhood, I’m proud to boast that all of my direct ancestors so far discovered, lived within 50 miles of where I live today. I am a self-employed historian, trading as Norfolk-Tours, providing bespoke history tours across East Anglia. With my passion for the county, I love being a Director of Buy Local Norfolk, which provides the opportunity to help Norfolk businesses grow and thrive within our local communities.
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.
Grace Appleby
I moved to Norwich in 2016 to attend UEA and fell in love with our fine city. Since then, I’ve been busy building Yawn Marketing with Sam Edwards, a local marketing agency that prioritises community above all else. I also run a Community Interest Company called Norfolk Women’s Marketing Network. I’m a relationship-builder by nature and love nothing more than meeting new people and connecting them with the things they need – be that a business, a service, or a friend. I really believe in the importance of buying local. I love supporting Buy Local Norfolk as a Director and helping to expand its reach and influence.