Welcome to the Little Valley Team, where our love for animals is the driving force behind everything we do! Our crew, comprising management, support staff, and around 15 skilled animal care assistants, is a close-knit group of passionate individuals.
What sets us apart? It’s our collective experience, dedication, and genuine care for our animal friends. Each team member brings their own expertise and a shared commitment to ensuring top-quality care for all our furry companions.
Why do we do what we do? Because there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making a positive impact in the lives of animals. Whether it’s a comforting pat or a lively play session, we’re here to ensure every animal feels valued and well-cared-for.
Join us on our journey, where every day brings new challenges and rewards. At the Little Valley Team, we’re not just colleagues – we’re a team united by our love for animals and our dedication to their well-being.
Hugh Lowson, our CEO, brings decades of senior management experience in healthcare charities to RSPCA Little Valley. His passion for animal welfare and strategic vision drive our shelter forward. Hugh’s leadership fosters teamwork and excellence, ensuring every animal receives love and care. Beyond work, he finds inspiration in nature and cherishes time with loved ones.
George brings 22 years of design, print, and marketing experience to Little Valley. Leaving behind a studio management role, he’s eager to dive into shelter projects. George’s rescued Jagdterrier, Mala, hails from Hungary, but his heart belongs to Greyhounds.
Marcus leads Little Valley’s retail team, bringing over 40 years of multi-site retail management experience, including as a Senior General Manager at Debenhams. Passionate about animal welfare, he also volunteers with the dog team. Based in Exeter, he enjoys fitness, travelling, and exploring the UK in his camper van with his partner and their Labradors.
Hayley is Little Valley’s Grants & Trusts Fundraiser, bringing over a decade of experience in the charity sector, including roles at FORCE Cancer Charity, Devon Air Ambulance, and Exeter Leukaemia Fund. Based near Exeter with her family and two dogs, she enjoys walking, swimming, paddleboarding, cooking, and crafting in her spare time. Contact Hayley by email at hhukku@rspca-littlevalley.org.uk or call 01392 690283
Rachael joined Little Valley in 2024, bringing with her extensive finance experience from roles at Eagle Investments, Clinton Devon Estates, Pedigree Books, and KTA Architects. She’s AAT qualified, a Mental Health First Aider, and a lifelong animal lover. Based in Exmouth, Rachael shares her home with her husband, two cats, and their dog, Willow.
Jo Blake brings around 20 years of experience in animal welfare and animal related charities in both paid and voluntary roles. She holds an MSc in Animal Welfare, Behaviour, Ethics and Law and continues her studies with a specific focus on animal behaviour and canine rehabilitation therapies. Jo is passionate about driving best practice, innovation, and team development at Little Valley—always with the animals’ welfare at heart.
Fiona joined Little Valley in 2022 as our Shelter Supervisor. Her passion for animals resides from growing up on a dairy farm and getting stuck into animal care from a very young age. Fiona has experience supervising in a microbiology laboratory and has an enormous passion for rabbits and their welfare. She loves spending time with her rabbits at home, hiking, and making music
Carol Allan has been integral to the Branch since settling in Devon in 1985. Initially serving as Treasurer, she assumed the role of Chairman upon the completion of Little Valley 30 years ago. Alongside her husband Richard, who conducts PAT testing for shop items, Carol’s passion for animal welfare is evident through her longstanding RSPCA membership since her early 20s. Her enduring commitment reflects in the continual evolution of Little Valley, a cause she proudly champions.
