BURY Hospice is set to see a change as its chairman leaves following a successful 18-month tenure in post.

After four years as a trustee, Simon Attwell is leaving this month and is set to be permanently replaced in 2021.

Eloise Burke, Chief Executive of Bury Hospice, said: “Simon’s passion and commitment to Bury Hospice over the past few years as trustee and chair has been much appreciated. And during these more recent difficult times Simon has been a steadying hand.

"Whilst we are sad to see him go, we are very grateful for the legacy he leaves.”

“We have an exceptionally strong team of trustees, and a robust succession plan in place for our position of chair which starts from 13th July, the date Simon leaves.”

Chris Claydon-Butler, who currently chairs the Hospice’s Audit and Regulatory Committee, will be taking over the reins as chairman from March 2021.

In the meantime Graham Yardley will be stepping in as chairman to cover the interim period of time, with the support of the newly-created role of vice-chairman, which Stuart Page has been appointed to.

Stuart has been a member of Bury Hospice’s board of trustees for two years and brings a wealth of legal, leadership and management experience having worked in law for over 30 years as a solicitor and higher court advocate.

Stuart’s belief that Bury Hospice is pivotal within the community of Bury drew him to become involved with the organisation.

Eloise added: “Having previously held the role of interim chair with us, we are delighted that Graham has agreed to assume the role again until Chris takes over in March 2021.

"Graham has a deep understanding and insight into the hospice sector having been involved in the hospice movement since 1995, and active on our board of trustees since January 2016.”

“As we plan to continue providing and developing our service’s across Bury, the wealth of expertise our board of trustees bring to Bury Hospice is invaluable.”

In Simon’s letter to staff and volunteers this week, he expressed his passion and commitment to Bury Hospice.

He said: “It was a real honour to have worked with you all and I shall treasure my time at the hospice as one of my best lifetime experiences.

"I could not have asked for more rewarding work - you are all Bury stars."