About Helston Chamber of Commerce

Helston Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organisation that uses membership fees simply to cover administration costs. All of the executive committee are volunteers elected by members at the AGM and give their time freely. Find out more about them here.

Meet the team – Executive committee

	Paul Strike, Chair Paul is the co-founder and managing director of Fourth Element, a market leading scuba diving and watersport brand established in 1999. Fourth Element is now distributed in 56 countries and has a reputation for producing innovative, high performance thermal protection and clothing for divers and water sport enthusiasts. Paul grew up in Porthleven and attended Helston school, before going to Exeter University and into the teaching profession for 16 years. Paul is proud of his Cornish heritage, enjoys all aspects of business and is passionate about finding a more sustainable approach to manufacturing and minimising our impact on the environment.
	Andrew Songhurst, Joint Vice Chair Andrew is passionate about business in Helston, and the town in general, having lived and worked here all his life. Previously general manager at local printer Brewers for many years, Andrew started his own printing company at the end of 2020 and jumped at the chance to be part of the Helston & District Chamber of Commerce when it was created in September of 2021. “I would like to see all businesses in Helston working together for the future prosperity of the town.”
	Jean Slater, Joint Vice Chair
	Marie Ridge, Treasurer Marie has lived in Cornwall since 2003 after relocating from London to be closer to family. She runs an accountancy practice in the centre of Helston, with her office boasting perfect placement for Flora Day viewing! She has a husband, Duncan, a teenage daughter, Lily, and her pride and joy that is Teddy the beagle. She has always been very active and has tried most types of exercise, her current passion being the gym, and has competed at a nation level in powerlifting.