Meet the Tufton Cottage Team
Welcome to our practice. We understand that visiting the dentist can be a nervous experience for some, which is why we’ve created this space for you to get to know us. Our goal is to help you feel completely at ease and confident in the friendly, professional care you’ll receive before you even step through our doors.
Meet the Dentists
Dr. William Crank
Principal Dentist
-BDS (Sheff. 2011)
-Certificate in Facilitating Medical Education Senior Dental Officer – Clinical Supervisor (NHS)
-Honorary Clinical Teaching Fellow (UCLan)
-Educational Supervisor – North East and North Cumbria Deanery
Will leads our clinical team, bringing over two decades of experience in dentistry and a strong interest in both clinical excellence and education.
​
Alongside his clinical work at Tufton Cottage, Will is an Honorary Clinical Teaching Fellow at the University of  Lancashire, where he is involved in teaching and supporting the next generation of dental professionals. He is also an Educational Supervisor and Foundation Dentist Trainer with the North East and North Cumbria Deanery, supporting newly qualified dentists as they begin their careers in general practice.
Â
He also works as a Senior Dental Officer – Clinical Supervisor for the NHS.
Will is passionate about combining high-quality, patient-centred care with the latest developments in modern dentistry, while also helping to develop and support other dental professionals.
​
Away from the practice, Will spends most of his time with his wife and their two young children. When he gets the chance, he can usually be found in the gym, attempting to balance family life with a lifelong interest in keeping fit.
Dr. Edward Lindsay-Black
Associate Dentist
MChD/BChD BSc (Leeds) MFDS RCSEd
Ed has now been part of the Tufton Cottage team for three years, and we’re delighted to see him expanding his hours with us. He brings a particular interest and expertise in oral surgery, combined with a meticulous eye for detail and a calm, thoughtful approach to patient care.
​
Ed is also a proud Member of the Royal College of Surgeons, an achievement that reflects his continued commitment to developing his skills and providing a high standard of clinical care.
​
Away from dentistry, Ed is a keen outdoorsman and enjoys making the most of the stunning countryside around us. If you’re looking for advice on a local crag, cliff or particularly ambitious crevice, Ed is definitely the man to ask!
Meet the Dentists
Dr. Daniel Gabriel
Foundation DentistÂ
BDS (Liverpool 2026) BSc (Manchester 2020)
Daniel is  joining the team in September 2026 to complete his foundation training placement. He brings fresh energy and fresh ideas to the practice. Daniel's placement gives him the time to spend with his patients to focus on their care and try new ideas. Daniel is passion about all things fitness and is looking forward to meeting new people in Church.Â
Dr. Graham Cunningham
Associate Dentist
BDS University of Glasgow
Graham joined our team in 2022, he is committed to providing high-quality, clinical excellence to families in Appleby.
Our Hygiene & Therapy Team
Samantha Shepherd
Dental Hygienist
Diploma in Dental Hygiene 1995 Manchester
Sam began her journey at Tufton Cottage in 1992. For over 3 decades, she has been a trusted guide for our patients, building a wonderful reputation through her caring and dedicated focus on healthy smiles.
Danielle Leach
Dental Therapist
BSc Oral Health Science University of Manchester 2016
Danielle joined the team in 2025 and brings some fresh ideas to the team. Danielle is continuing her education alongside working with us to become a Dentist at the University of Lancashire.Â
Our Nursing Team
Jayne Simpson
Dental Nurse
Jayne comes with over 20 years of experience, She has been with Tufton Cottage since the start of her career. She loves Wine and Downhill mountain bikingÂ
Abbie Cannon
Dental Nurse
Our resident farmer, Abbie has over 10 years experience. She has been with us at Tufton Cottage since 2016. Abbie is famous for doing every job possible with both hands tied behind her back.Â
Zoe Graham
Dental Nurse
After having so much fun attending Tufton Cottage as a patient, Zoe enquired about the opportunity to become an employee. 2 years later she is our newest qualified nurse. Outside of work she is currently learning her 5th new language.Â
Fern Shepherd
Trainee Dental NurseÂ
Our newest member to the nursing team is Fern. Â Fern is great with people and always keen for a chat. Feel free to stop her in the street for a natter if you're bored. Â
Rhianna Crank
Practice Manager/Dental Nurse/Company Director
Rhianna moved to Appleby with Will to lead Tufton Cottage. Nine years on, she manages our evolving practice with heart while also supporting clinical care as a qualified dental nurse.
Our Administrative Team
Tracey White
Receptionist
Tracey joined Tufton Cottage 19 years ago and is always happy to greet you with her welcoming smile. Outside of work you'll spot Tracey pumping iron in the gym.Â
Lisa Petty
Receptionist
Lisa joined the team 7 years ago temporarily to help during Rhiannas maternity leave and made such a great impression she stayed with us ever since.Â
Our Core Values
Gentle Care: Ensuring every visit is tranquil and comfort-focused.
Clear Communication: Open dialogue for informed dental health decisions.
Modern Technology: Advanced clinical tools for precise, effective results.
Family First: Dentistry designed for every member of the Appleby community.