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!