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Newport Live announces retirement of Chairman and Founding Trustee Kevin Ward
05 Jun 2026
Newport Live has announced that its chairman and founding trustee, Kevin Ward, has retired from the board following more than a decade of dedicated voluntary service.
Kevin joined the Newport Live Board at its inception in 2015 and has played a central role in the organisation’s growth and development. Over the years, he has served as a committee chair, Vice Chair and, since 2023, Chairman.
Speaking about his decision, Kevin said: “It has been an honour and privilege to serve as a volunteer Newport Live trustee for the last 11 years. I have been particularly proud to serve as Chairman over the last three years. As my family circumstances have changed, particularly since the arrival of my two granddaughters, I have been looking to reduce my voluntary commitments and now is the right time to leave Newport Live in the capable hands of others. I will always remain a huge supporter of Newport Live, of the remarkable work we do, the amazing contributions of my fellow volunteer board members, and of every one of our incredible colleagues across the charity. In particular, I wish to pay tribute to our Chief Executive, Steve Ward (no relation), who is such an incredible asset not only to Newport Live but to our city as a whole.”
Newport Live Chief Executive, Steve Ward said: “Kevin has been instrumental in shaping Newport Live from its very beginning. His passion for the charity, our colleagues and the communities we serve has been unwavering. Kevin’s leadership as chairman has helped guide Newport Live through growth, change and impact, and his commitment as a trustee has made a lasting difference to the charity. On behalf of everyone at Newport Live, I would like to thank Kevin for his dedication, support and friendship over the past decade. He leaves with our sincere gratitude and very best wishes for the future.”
Following Kevin’s retirement, Vice Chair Phil Tilley will take on the role of Interim Chair, continuing to support Newport Live’s work across sport, physical activity, arts and culture, community sport and education.
Newport Live would like to thank Kevin for his significant contribution and leadership and wish him all the very best for the future.
Newport Live will shortly begin recruitment for a new trustee to join its Board. This will be an opportunity for individuals who are passionate about supporting communities across Newport and beyond to play a key role in the future of the charity.
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