Meet The Team

Last updated: October 31, 2025

Meet the dedicated professionals behind TyreSafe. Our team brings diverse expertise in road safety, tyre industry, and communications, all united by a passion for promoting tyre safety.

Stuart Lovatt – Chair

Appointed as Chair in September 2022, Stuart Lovatt brings a wealth of strategic road safety expertise to TyreSafe.

Formerly Strategic Road Safety Lead at National Highways, Stuart has long supported TyreSafe’s mission and now leads its next phase of growth within the wider road safety community.

His experience includes representing the UK at the United Nations Global Road Safety Committee, contributing to national safety boards including RoSPA and PACTS, and serving as a long-standing judge for the Prince Michael International Road Safety Awards.

Stuart’s leadership marks an exciting new chapter for TyreSafe as it strengthens its impact and influence across the industry.

Simon Hiorns – Trustee & Treasurer

Simon Hiorns brings extensive tyre retail expertise to his role as Trustee and Treasurer of TyreSafe.

A long-time supporter of the charity, Simon previously served on the Steering Committee while Retail Director at Micheldever Tyre Services and ProTyre.

First appointed to the Board of Trustees in 2018 and re-elected in 2024, Simon continues to combine his industry insight with a strong commitment to road safety, helping guide TyreSafe’s strategic direction and financial stewardship.

Tony Crook – Trustee

TyreSafe was delighted to welcome Tony Crook as its newest Trustee, elected at the AGM in November 2024.

A highly respected road safety expert, Tony brings decades of experience to the role.

As Road Safety Manager for Lancashire County Council, he leads teams focused on education, engagement, and speed management, and chairs the Delivery Group of the Lancashire Road Safety Partnership.

His previous roles include senior leadership at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and serving as the National Fire Chief Council’s Lead Officer for Road Safety.

Tony’s strategic insight and lifelong dedication to safer roads is a valuable asset to TyreSafe’s ongoing work.

John Thrupp – Trustee

John Thrupp, Marketing Director at Kumho Tyres, has been a committed supporter and founding member of TyreSafe since its formation in 2006.

As a Trustee, he brings deep industry knowledge and plays a key behind-the-scenes role in strengthening ties across the tyre sector.

John’s longstanding involvement ensures tyre safety remains firmly on the agenda, helping TyreSafe amplify its message and maintains strong engagement with industry stakeholders.

Michael Bourne – Operations Director

Mike’s background is from within the tyre industry, with almost three decades of experience in leadership roles within large multi-site retail operations.

As a founding member of TyreSafe, Mike has been instrumental in shaping its mission and driving its growth.

Currently serving as Operations Director (having previously been a member of the Board of Trustees), Mike provides strategic leadership, ensures governance and compliance, and oversees member and stakeholder engagement, communications, and brand management.

With a deep understanding of tyre technology, industry dynamics, and road safety issues, Mike is uniquely positioned to contribute to TyreSafe’s mission.

With a keen interest in consumer behaviour Mike is passionate about raising awareness of the importance of tyre safety and promoting best practices among road users and industry professionals.

Emma Burley – Communications Manager

Emma Burley has worked closely with TyreSafe for several years, leading the development and delivery of impactful communications that support the charity’s mission.

She works alongside stakeholders, trustees, and the wider team to create timely campaigns that drive awareness and behaviour change, ensuring tyre safety remains a national conversation.

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