Visit Knowle is a business led not for profit organisation, formed by a group of volunteers from businesses, community groups and residents; led by a team of volunteer Directors. Find out a little more about our Board of Directors.
Nick Lyons, Director
Role: Chair of the Board
Nick Lyons became part of our board in 2021 and brings with him deep local roots and a passion for village life. He’s a director of Eric Lyons, one of Knowle’s longest-standing businesses. The family-run artisan butchers is a true local gem, known for getting involved in many community initiatives, especially if food is involved.
Born and raised in Knowle, Nick knows the village inside out and has strong ties across the community. When he’s not behind the counter or supporting local business initiatives, you’ll likely find him on the cricket field. Nick has played and volunteered with Knowle Village Cricket Club for years and is also an active supporter of Solihull Moors Football Club.
A proud champion of Knowle, Nick’s commitment to supporting local businesses and village life shines through in everything he does.
Dave Pinwell, Director and Co Founder
Role: Grants and Fundraising
A familiar face to many, Dave Pinwell is one of the founding Directors of Visit Knowle and a long-standing champion of our village. It was Dave, alongside Kim, who brought together the very first Visit Knowle meeting back in May 2019.
Dave first moved to Knowle in 1983 and has been deeply involved in village life ever since. He’s been an active Trustee of The Knowle Society since 2005 and played a key role in setting up the KDBH Neighbourhood Forum. For several years now, Dave has also served as one of Knowle’s local Ward Councillors, working hard to represent the community’s voice and champion local priorities at borough level.
A strong believer in the power of local, Dave is passionate about building a thriving village economy and knows how important a vibrant commercial centre is to the heart of a community. His knowledge, commitment and steady involvement help keep Knowle moving forward with purpose and pride.
Chris Gregory, Director
Role: Street Scene Improvements
Chris Gregory is one of Visit Knowle’s founding Directors and brings a wealth of place management expertise to the team. He runs Heartflood Ltd, a Knowle-based company that provides professional advice and hands-on support to towns and cities across the UK, helping them thrive.
Since the very beginning, Chris has played a key role in shaping Visit Knowle’s structure, helping to establish our four dedicated project teams and providing guidance on a range of local initiatives. His practical experience and strategic insight have been invaluable in turning ideas into action.
Chris has called Knowle home for almost two decades and enjoys being part of the community, both professionally and socially. He’s also a member of Copt Heath Golf Club, where he swaps the planning meetings for the putting green whenever he can.
Mary Liszewski, Director
Role: Business Support
Mary Liszewski is the owner of Achill Spa, where guests are warmly welcomed to Achill House on Hampton Road for relaxing treatments, overnight stays, and indulgent breakfasts or afternoon teas. It’s a haven of calm right here in Knowle, and a true reflection of Mary’s care and hospitality.
Mary’s family has long been rooted in Knowle, and she’s deeply connected to the village community. She gives her time generously, volunteering with the British Legion, the MS Society, and supporting a number of local events and initiatives.
Before stepping into her role as Director, Mary was a hands-on member of the Visit Knowle events team for two years, helping to bring our village calendar to life. Her enthusiasm, warmth and community spirit make her a real asset to the team and to village life.
Ken Mackay, Director
Role: Finances
Ken has been a cornerstone of Knowle’s community for decades, living here since 1980 and raising his family in the village alongside his wife and two daughters.
For 11 years, Ken proudly served as Club Chairman of Knowle Royal British Legion, playing a vital role in supporting veterans and organising community events that bring people together. In 2023, Ken became Club President of Knowle Royal British Legion.
His dedication to local causes doesn’t stop there. Ken is an ardent Solihull Moors supporter with a family season ticket going back over a decade. In addition, he volunteers with Royal Star & Garter in Solihull, lending his time and support to those in need.
Ken’s long-standing commitment and genuine care make him a trusted and well-respected figure in Knowle, always ready to give back and help the village thrive.
Sue Thompson, Director
Role: Events
Sue Thompson has been a familiar face in Knowle since 2013, managing No Thirty One Kitchen Showroom on Station Road. Over the years, Sue has built a reputation for offering beautifully crafted kitchens and bedrooms that perfectly suit local homes.
But Sue’s involvement goes well beyond her own business. She is a strong advocate for all the businesses along Station Road, championing their role in keeping the heart of Knowle thriving. As a member of Visit Knowle since day one, Sue works closely with fellow residents and businesses to support and promote the village community. Her passion for quality, local connections, and village life shines through in everything she does.
Sue’s dedication helps ensure that Knowle remains a vibrant place to live, work, and shop.
Jenna Porch, Director
Role: Events
Jenna is Office Manager at local business Tirebuck Recruitment. She actually started working there over 20 years ago when she first worked alongside Karen. After exploring other ventures, including a successful career as an events manager, Jenna has returned to the Tirebuck team to bring her trademark energy, organisation, and efficiency to the day-to-day running of the office.
Known for her fun spirit and sharp eye for detail, Jenna plays a key role in making Visit Knowle’s events run like clockwork. Whether she’s organising behind the scenes or being on call on the day, her efficiency and calm approach ensure everything goes smoothly, helping to create memorable experiences for everyone involved.
You’ll often spot Jenna at Visit Knowle events, clipboard in hand, making sure every detail is spot on. Her enthusiasm and ability to juggle multiple tasks effortlessly make her an invaluable part of both the team and the community.
Kim Hulse, Co Founder
Role: Marketing and delivering Business Support
Kim Hulse of K Hulse Consulting is one of the driving forces behind Visit Knowle, having called the very first meeting alongside Dave Pinwell in May 2019. She is passionate about supporting local businesses by bringing them together to collaborate on projects that benefit the whole village.
Kim leads the marketing efforts for Visit Knowle, ensuring businesses stay informed and connected through newsletters, networking events, and more. Her focus is always on helping the village’s businesses thrive through clear communication and strong partnerships.
A strong advocate for Knowle and Visit Knowle, Kim regularly represents the group with key stakeholders including Solihull Council, Solihull Chambers, and local community organisations. She’s also involved in place-making initiatives beyond Knowle, helping other towns develop vibrant, connected communities.
Though Kim has visited Knowle since childhood, she made it her home in 2006 and continues to appreciate the friendly, close-knit community spirit that makes the village such a great place to be.
Jack Dunne, Accountant
Role: Accounts
Jack Dunne grew up in Knowle, attending the local primary school before moving on to Arden School. With Knowle truly in his bones, Jack’s deep connection to the village shapes everything he does.
Now a professional accountant, Jack is passionate about giving back to the community that raised him. As part of Visit Knowle, he brings his skills and local pride together to support initiatives that help the village thrive.