Farewell to Dave Crudgington

This week we say farewell to Abernethy Barcaple’s Centre Director, Dave Crudgington.

Dave first moved to Scotland from Norfolk 20 years ago to join the School of Adventure Leadership at Abernethy Ardgour, now Kilmalieu. After finishing the year long course as a Trainee Instructor, he then joined the Nethy Bridge team as an Instructor in 2006, marrying the wonderful Sarah the following year.

Dave progressed through the ranks to Senior Instructor before moving to Barcaple and becoming Chief Instructor and finally Centre Director in 2020. He has seen many changes throughout his years at Abernethy, from centres bought and sold to staff members starting and moving on. He has overseen the construction of the boating pond and sports hall at Barcaple, as well as the refurbishment of the main house and many of the staff accommodations on site.

Dave on a team trip to Tignes, 2006.

Dave and Sarah, who works in early years and primary education, have lived their entire married life within Abernethy, raising their four children who have grown up on site, attending camps and now starting to work at Abernethy Barcaple too! He acknowledges this as a momentous change for him and his family, although they will be staying in Dumfries and Galloway and continue to be involved in the local community.

Dave will be moving on to start his own business, and will take away many great memories of adventures with him. Dave has been passionate about serving God and raising new team members to reach their potential and live the adventure. There are many people who owe Dave memories, support through difficult times and thanks in abundance.

“We are so grateful to Dave for all he has given to Abernethy in terms of time, energy, and expertise. His down-to-earth approach has made guests and staff alike feel safe and he has inspired many who have worked alongside him in their careers and their faith. He has been a faithful friend and colleague to me over the years and we pray that he will flourish in his next adventure.”

Ed Metcalfe, Chief Executive