Chief of Timpson aboard chamber
HALTON Chamber has announced the appointment of its latest patron, retail champion James Timpson OBE, in its bid to continue to foster close links between the business community and the third sector.
Well known within the business community, James brings over 20 years’ experience of retail service, having been chief executive of family business Timpson since 2011.
James has helped grow the business to over 2000+ shops and has developed several innovative ways to develop his company at a time when traditional High Street retailing has suffered.
James also pioneered the recruitment of ex-offenders, and Timpson now employs over 600 prison leavers (over 10% of its workforce).
Halton Chamber of Commerce, a not-for-profit, membership organisation welcomes businesses from Runcorn and Widnes, and works collaboratively with them to understand their business goals and raise their organisations profile.
Halton Chamber delivers a number of services including business support, export documentation and networking events.
The Halton Business Awards, held annually by Halton Chamber champions business practice and celebrates business success.
Rachael Owen, chief executive of Halton Chamber, said: “We feel honored to have James as our latest patron. This is a fantastic opportunity for both Halton Chamber and our members to learn from the best. Retail is an integral part of our local economy and everyday lives and it is important that it is supported and valued.”
James is chair of the Prison Reform Trust and supports various prison charities and support groups and was presented with an OBE in 2011 for the training and employment of disadvantaged people.
Val Allen MBE, chair of Halton Chamber of Commerce, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have James Timpson on board as one of the Patrons of Halton Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise.
“James is a truly inspirational and unique businessman doing things differently in his own businesses. His people-centred approach running his organisation fits well with the Chambers ethos of helping and supporting both the community and businesses in Halton.”
FANS of The Queen have been invited to apply for a road closure to celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee with a street party.
It’s now 70 years since Elizabeth II inherited the monarchy following the death of her father King George VI in 1952. Although national events will be taking place to commemorate her reign, residents around the country are being encouraged to organise their own bashes with family, friends and neighbours.
A four-day bank holiday weekend will be held from Thursday, June 2, to Sunday, June 5 to mark the occasion. Anyone who holds a street party needs to gain permission for a formal road closure.
A Halton Borough Council spokeswoman said there is no cost but applications must be in by April 29.
Full guidance and the relevant form can be found at halton.gov.uk, which also features the conditions that need to be met.
Completed applications can be emailed to streetworkstm@halton. gov.uk, taken in print form to any Halton Direct Link office, or posted to Street Parties Road Closure Applications, Highways Department, Municipal Building, Kingsway, Widnes, WA8 7QF.
During her tenure as monarch, The Queen has visited the borough including for the official opening of the Mersey Gateway bridge in 2018 as well as Runcorn Shopping City in 1972.