Leading Cumbrian baker Bells of Lazonby has appointed Claire Leftwich as its new finance director.
Claire joins the third-generation family business from James Cropper, near Kendal. She started her career as a finance manager for Lakeland Leather, before operating as head of commercial finance for Lakeland Ltd.
David Simmons – who previously held the position of finance director for Bells of Lazonby– is moving on to pastures new after 17 years.
During his time with the bakers, he has been an integral part of its rapid growth – with sales today forecast to be more than £40million, the firm said.
Claire has more than 15 years’ experience in finance across senior roles.
She said: “I have a great passion for working for family businesses with strong values. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working at two of the most well-known Lakeland legacy businesses – so I am incredibly excited to pursue the next stage of my career with the Bells family.”
Managing director for Bells of Lazonby, Tim Conder, said: “We are excited to welcome Claire into the team as we enter the next chapter for our business. Bells of Lazonby has an inspiring growth story built on consumer trust, category innovation and ultimately, a legacy of brilliant people”.
Bells of Lazonby have been trading 77 years. The board is comprised of both second and third generation family members and the business remain wholly family owned.
Cheers! Landlords toast long service at Cartmel pub
Landlords of a Cartmel pub have been recognised for their work with a long-service award.
Richard and Donna English, who run The Cavendish Arms, are marking their 20th anniversary at the landmark pub, the oldest in the village.
The award from the building’s owners, Star Pubs, recognises the contribution the couple have made to the community since taking over the pub in 2003.
They have created 100 jobs and helped raise £30,000 for charity including £19,000 for the Morecombe Bay Search & Rescue hoverboard.
Prior to taking on The Cavendish Arms, Richard had run bistros and tapas restaurants in Leeds and Harrogate.
Richard says: “I feel incredibly fortunate to do the job that I do and have no intention of retiring any time soon. It gives me a great sese of pride to make people happy. We had an open house to thank locals for supporting us and were overwhelmed by the massive turn out. It was humbling to hear how important the pub is to everyone.
New committee for Carlisle MP
Carlisle MP John Stevenson has joined a Parliamentary committee which examines the productivity gap between urban and rural areas.
The Rural Business and Rural Powerhouse All Party Parliamentary Group works with industrial bosses, charities academics and business.
It produced one of the most comprehensive enquiries ever undertaken by an All Party Parliamentary Group, Levelling Up the Rural Economy.
Mr Stevenson said he recognised the importance of the rural hinterland of Carlisle and was intending to build on the recommendations of the report.
Valuer joins auction house
An auction house on the Cumbria and Lancashire border has welcomed Rowan Hughes as junior silver and jewellery valuer.
Rowan joins the 1818 Auctioneers team after moving from Glasgow where she gained industry experience at a local auction house. Rowan will work alongside Jackie Rothwell, specialist valuer, who has led the jewellery team for over a decade at the auction house.
Rowan’s professional qualifications include an MSc in collecting and provenance in an international context from the University of Glasgow, and a BA with honours in medieval history from Aberystwyth University in Wales.
1818 Auctioneers said it had seen year-on-year growth since relocating to its site at J36 rural auction mart and moving to timed online auctions.
As well as expanding the team, the business is also underway with the development of a new building on the site which is due to be operational by the end of the year.
Assistant auction manager, Simon Thompson said: “Rowan has settled into the team very well and is already well liked, she is getting to grips with the systems and processes quickly, her work ethic, attitude and general demeanour are first class. Rowan has contributed from the start and will grow quickly in knowledge and confidence.
Rowan added: “I’m thrilled to have joined such a welcoming and friendly team here at 1818 Auctioneers, and I look forward to the future with the constant aim to improve and expand our sales.”
