Active Sussex welcomes two new patrons championing health, inclusion and community impact

Active Sussex has announced the appointment of two patrons to help strengthen our mission to create a more active and healthier Sussex.

The patrons are Darrell Gale, Director of Public Health for East Sussex, (pictured left) and Professor Rob Galloway, Emergency Medicine Consultant at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust (pictured right).

Together, they bring extensive experience across public health, prevention, health inequalities, emergency medicine and community engagement.

Their support will help amplify the importance of physical activity across the county, particularly for people and communities facing the greatest barriers to moving more.

Active Sussex Chair of the Board of Trustees, Christine Gibbons MBE, said: “We are delighted to welcome Darrell and Rob as patrons of Active Sussex. Both are highly respected leaders who share our commitment to improving health and wellbeing across Sussex.

“As patrons, they will help raise the profile of our work, champion the benefits of physical activity and strengthen our voice among partners and communities across the county.”

Active Sussex CEO Anthony Statham said: “It’s fantastic to have Darrell and Rob join us as patrons.

“Their expertise, passion and commitment to improving health outcomes will help us drive our mission to support those facing the greatest challenges to being active.

“Their voices will be invaluable as we continue to work with partners across Sussex to create lasting, meaningful change.”

Championing prevention, wellbeing and healthier communities

As Director of Public Health for East Sussex, Darrell Gale has long been a leading voice for prevention, community health and tackling inequalities. 

His work focuses on creating environments where people can thrive, and where movement is recognised as a vital part of improving physical and mental wellbeing.

Darrell’s insight into local health systems, population needs and strategic partnerships will play a key role in shaping how Active Sussex continues to support communities most in need of opportunities to be active.

Bringing clinical expertise and advocacy for active lifestyles

Professor Rob Galloway is widely known for his work in emergency medicine, patient safety and health advocacy. 

Alongside his clinical leadership, he is a passionate supporter of physical activity as a tool to improve long‑term health outcomes and reduce pressure on health services.

Rob’s experience working directly with patients and communities gives him a powerful perspective on why movement matters – not just for fitness, but for confidence, resilience and overall quality of life.

Alongside his front-line work, Rob is an Honorary Clinical Professor at Brighton and Sussex Medical School, a Senior Medical Advisor to Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. and has been a director and trustee of Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation since November 2023. He was also the medical director for the Brighton Marathon for more than ten years.

A shared commitment to a more active, healthier Sussex

The appointment of two patrons marks an exciting step for Active Sussex as we continue to grow our place‑based work, strengthen partnerships and champion inclusive opportunities for movement across the county.

Darrell and Rob will support the charity’s advocacy and public engagement, helping ensure that physical activity remains central to improving health, wellbeing and community connection across Sussex.