Sam Rayner CBE, DL

Sam was born in Kendal and has lived and worked almost all his life in and around Windermere.

He was educated at Heversham Grammar School, following which he worked as a volunteer in Uganda, prior to joining the family business.

His working career was as Managing Director and Chairman of Windermere-based Lakeland Limited. Sam has served on a number of industry related boards, including the Food Freezer Council, the Microwave Association, Cumbria Rural Enterprise, and the Show Exhibitors Association.

He has held board, governor, officer or committee roles with Lakeside YMCA, Westmorland Agricultural Society, Kendal College, Sedbergh School, Kendal Sea Cadets. He was a Fellow of Brathay Trust, Chairman and Life Member of Kendal Round Table, President of Westmorland Agricultural Society, and an Ambassador for Cumbria Scouts. He is currently a Trustee for the Frieda Scott Trust.

Sam served as High Sheriff of Cumbria in 2015-16, was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 2016, and was awarded a CBE in 2020 for services to business and the community of Cumbria.

He is married to Judy. They have three children and three grandchildren.