The West Riding FA is delighted to announce the appointment of three new independent directors: Paul Cook, Measha Harris, and Siobhan Atkinson. These three professionals bring a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to the governance and development of grassroots football across the region.

West Riding FA follow a formal, rigorous and transparent procedure for the appointment of new Directors to the Board, and all appointments are made on merit in line with skills required of the Board. 
 
Paul Cook
 
Paul Cook joins the board as a Non-Executive Director, bringing over two decades of experience in education alongside a lifelong commitment to football. Reflecting on his appointment, Paul said:
 
“I am incredibly excited to be joining the West Riding FA as a Non-Executive Director. I am passionate about football which has always been a huge part of my life. As a former grassroots player in both junior and open-age football; a supporter who regularly attends fixtures across the country; and now as a parent of children who play grassroots football - the game has always been an enormous source of joy and connection for me.
 
I am an education professional with over 20 years’ experience in schools. I hope that my skillset will bring added value to the organisation and will ultimately help to continue shaping the future of grassroots football across the West Riding. I am very grateful for this opportunity, and I am really looking forward to getting started.”
 
Measha Harris
 
Measha Harris steps into the role of Board Safeguarding Champion (BSC), a critical position that underscores the organisation's unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of everyone involved in grassroots football. Measha shared her enthusiasm for the role:
 
“I’m thrilled to join the board at West Riding FA as Safeguarding Champion. I look forward to working collaboratively to drive positive change and support the growth and development of grassroots football.”
 
Siobhan Atkinson
 
Siobhan Atkinson’s appointment further strengthens the board with her extensive leadership experience and a proven track record of driving organisational success. Her insights will be invaluable in helping West Riding FA achieve its strategic goals and continue its journey of growth and inclusivity.
 
“I’m delighted to join the Board at West Riding FA. I’ve had a professional career having the privilege of seeing how football can positively impact in many different ways and I’m passionate about being able to continue to use my knowledge and skills in the community in which I reside making a positive contribution to ensuring that football really is a game for all.”
 
Barry Chaplin, Chair of the Board at West Riding FA, welcomed the Non-Executive Directors, saying:
 
“The appointments of Paul, Measha, and Siobhan mark a significant milestone for West Riding FA as we continue to build a diverse, skilled, and forward-thinking leadership team. Each of them brings unique perspectives and expertise that will undoubtedly enrich our governance and help us drive meaningful progress in grassroots football. We are thrilled to have them on board.”
 
Hannah Simpson, CEO of West Riding FA, added:
 
“It’s an exciting time for West Riding FA, and the addition of Paul, Measha, and Siobhan to our board strengthens our commitment to excellence and inclusivity. Their collective experience will be invaluable as we work together to grow and develop football across our region. I look forward to seeing the impact of their contributions as we continue to make football accessible and enjoyable for all.”
 
The appointments of Paul, Measha, and Siobhan signify West Riding FA’s commitment to diversity, expertise, and forward-thinking leadership. As the organisation continues to champion football for all, these new board members will play a pivotal role in fostering innovation, inclusivity, and community engagement across the region.
 
These new appointments fill the spaces left by Martin Sheriff, who stepped down in 2024, and the late Eric Beedham, whose legacy continues to inspire us. West Riding FA would like to thank Eric and Martin for their diligent contribution during their tenure and extend a warm welcome to Paul, Measha, and Siobhan as they begin their journey with us. 
 
Find out more about our new Non-Executive Directors here
 
Find out more about our recruitment process here