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The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association (OATA) has appointed two new directors to its board during its annual general meeting on 14 January 2026.
Kevin Barton, of ALF Aquatic Distribution Ltd, returns to the board, while the Revd David Walker, of Birley Moor Aquatics Centre, joins as a new voluntary director.
Dr Donna Snellgrove, representing Mars Petcare, has also begun a two-year term as chair, succeeding Laura Carlin of EcoMarines, and Maurits van de Pol, of Aquadistri, has been appointed to the vice chair role.
The OATA board currently consists of 16 members representing wholesalers, manufacturers, importers, and retailers.
The association noted that two vacancies remain on the board, which typically comprises 18 directors.
OATA operates a New Blood scheme allowing interested parties to join as observers before committing to a full directorship.
Dr Matt Bond, chief executive of OATA, said: “Laura has been an exemplary chair, serving longer than the usual two-year stint. She has been a real support to the team over the past year, when we’ve undergone so many changes. And we’re very grateful to all our directors who volunteer their time to sit on our board. We cannot do it without them.”
