Burnley Bondholders chairman steps down

Mark Crabtree is to stand down as chairman of Burnley Bondholders after eight highly successful years in the role.

Under his guidance, Burnley was named the Most Enterprising Area in 2013, the second most successful town for digital jobs growth in 2016 and a Top 16 UK Tech Town in 2018.

He was also instrumental in the creation of The Landmark, the historic building which now provides creative work spaces and business support for start-ups and growing businesses. 

Mark will now focus more time on the business he founded, AMS Neve, which makes world-class sound engineering equipment used in the music and film industries.

He will continue to contribute to the town's future with a role at Making it in Burnley, an aspirational strategy to help boost the attainment of young people in the town. 

Mark said: "I feel now is the right time for me to step down and I look forward to welcoming my successor. Burnley Bondholders is highly regarded both within and outside our borough and over the years, I’ve often been asked by other councils how the partnership is so successful. The answer, quite simply, is the spirit of the people of Burnley.

Mark’s contribution to Burnley Bondholders cannot be underestimated.

"We see what needs doing and without fanfare, we roll up our sleeves and get things done. The town has an innovative, resilient and entrepreneurial approach and this will be needed now more than ever as we navigate the post-COVID-19 era."

Mick Cartledge, Burnley Council’s chief executive said: "Mark’s contribution to Burnley Bondholders cannot be underestimated. From day one, he has been passionate about driving our town forward and promoting it as a great place to live, work, study and explore.

"He leaves the Bondholders in a strong position and I have begun the process to find a successor with the same passion and commitment to Burnley. I know I speak for everyone when I say a huge thank you to Mark and we look forward to celebrating his achievements when the time is right and safe for the bondholders to come together."

A new chair of Burnley Bondholders will be appointed shortly.

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