MEET THE TEAM
David Wallis
- Trustee -
In 2013, David Wallis moved with his wife Robbie Bartington, the founder of Woodfield, to the Gower Peninsula in the hope of a quieter life and a well-earned retirement.
What followed was entirely unplanned.
Over time — and completely unexpectedly — Woodfield evolved into an animal sanctuary. As more animals in need appeared, turning them away was never an option. The numbers grew, the work intensified, and it soon became clear that retirement was no longer on the horizon.
Year after year, the volume of animals increased, bringing relentless responsibility, physical labour, emotional strain, and financial pressure. Yet Robbie and David continued, driven by compassion and a deep sense of duty to the animals who depended on them.
In June 2024, Robbie unexpectedly passed away at Woodfield.
Her loss was devastating — not only to David and their family, but to everyone who had come to know her through the sanctuary and the countless animals whose lives she had changed forever.
In the weeks that followed, there was a great deal of uncertainty about the future. David was faced with the reality of moving forward without the person who had been the heart and driving force behind Woodfield.
After a period of reflection, and with the unwavering support of Team Woodfield, David agreed that Woodfield would continue — carrying forward Robbie’s legacy and the work she had devoted her life to.
Today, David remains closely involved and serves as Chair of the Charity, helping to guide Woodfield as it continues to operate with the same values it was built upon: compassion, integrity, and the belief that no animal should ever be failed again.
Nathan Stanley Roberts
- Trustee -
Nathan struggled in school from an early age and was later diagnosed as dyslexic. Traditional classroom learning was challenging, and for a long time he felt out of place.
But outside of school, Nathan found something that made sense to him.
He found horses.
At just 13 years old, Nathan discovered a deep connection with equines — one built on patience, understanding, and trust. In 2013, after rescuing his first horse, he found himself outside a local animal feed shop, where a handwritten sign in the window caught his eye:
“Free stable in exchange for yard work.”
Nathan applied — and that moment would quietly shape his future.
Through that application, he spoke to Robbie Bartington on the phone for the first time. Neither could have known that this single conversation would go on to change Nathan’s life.
Before and after school, Nathan travelled to Woodfield, where he kept his horse and helped around the yard. Robbie and David quickly took him under their wing — not just as employers, but like grandparents. Robbie taught Nathan to ride, and Woodfield became far more than a place to keep a horse.
It became home.
After leaving school, Nathan began working full-time alongside Robbie and David. They were family, united by shared values, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to the animals in their care.
After spending two to three years away from the horse world, Nathan’s path eventually led elsewhere — but it was never truly an ending.
In June 2024, Robbie unexpectedly passed away at Woodfield. Nathan received the call and returned immediately. At that moment, the future of the sanctuary was uncertain.
What was certain was Nathan’s resolve.
He made it abundantly clear that he would not see Woodfield close —
“After everything we had all been through over the years.”
Nathan returned full-time, determined to help carry Woodfield forward, honouring the woman who had believed in him when few others did.
Woodfield gave Nathan purpose when he needed it most. Today, he is committed to ensuring it continues to offer that same sense of belonging — not just to animals in need, but to people like him too.
Because Woodfield has never only been a sanctuary for animals.
It is a place of second chances — on both sides of the gate.
Alyson Edwards
- Trustee -
Alyson has always had a deep love and passion for horses. Growing up in Gower — the only place she has ever truly known as home — that connection felt natural.
In 2020, while looking for a few extra hours of work, Alyson began her Woodfield journey. What started as additional work quickly became far more. Her commitment — not only to the job, but to keeping fit — often saw her cycling mile after mile to Woodfield, completing a full day’s work, and then cycling all the way home again.
Before long, Alyson brought her beloved horse to stay at Woodfield, allowing her to spend even more time in the place she had grown to love so deeply.
It wasn’t long before another horse captured her heart — a beautiful Section D mare named Queenie, who had been acquired by Robbie. Recognising the bond between them, Robbie later gifted Queenie to Alyson. Today, Alyson and Queenie spend many weekends riding across the Gower landscape, a place that has always felt like home.
Over the years, Alyson’s dedication and commitment have proven unwavering.
Alyson was working on the morning that Robbie unexpectedly passed away. She did everything she could, performing CPR while waiting for the ambulance to arrive — an act that speaks volumes about her courage and devotion.
She had always been committed to Woodfield, but from that moment on, something changed.
It was there that Alyson made a pact with Nathan — to do everything physically possible to protect Woodfield, its animals, and the legacy Robbie had built.
Woodfield is not just where Alyson works.
It is part of who she is.
Melanie Lloyd
- Trustee -
Mel has been a supporter of Woodfield for many years. A true animal lover, she has never had any problem speaking up for animal rights. In 2024, following Robbie’s passing, Mel became a trustee of Woodfield, continuing her long-standing commitment to the animals in our care.
Anwen Braithwaite
- Secretary -
Anwen is a long-term supporter who has been instrumental in highlighting and supporting the plight of ponies on local common land. With her help, we have been able to save many common ponies in need over the years. In 2025, Anwen joined the team as Secretary, continuing her commitment to their welfare.