CLEVR Money appoints new president

CLEVR Money, the credit union for Blackpool, Fylde, Wyre, Preston and Lancaster, has promoted David Owen from deputy to head of the board of directors.

Coun David Owen, who has served as a representative on Blackpool Borough Council for 43 years, has been a member of the credit union’s board since its formation in 2009. He is also chairman of the council’s planning committee, chairman of the Winter Gardens Trust and runs Layton Law.

He takes over the president's role from Ron Bell, who received an OBE for Services to the Royal Marines following his seven-year tenure as national chairman of its charity. Ron was also a Blackpool councillor and another a founding member of the credit union.

Ron said: "It has been an absolute pleasure working with this board and the fantastic CLEVR Money operational team. I am sad to go but pleased to have overseen a phenomenal period for the organisation, having a record £2.96m out on loan helping people in this community to avoid bad debt.

"I know I’m leaving CLEVR Money in extremely capable hands and that the commitment of the board and staff will ensure the longevity and success of the organisation for many years to come."

Philip Owen has also been voted in as treasurer, taking over the role from council finance boss Steve Thompson. He is also chair of the credit committee, a role he took on in 2019. He retired as manager for Barclays Bank in Lancashire after 36 years and has served on the CLEVR Money board for the last four years.

The credit union has also welcomed new board member John Donnellon, chief executive of Blackpool Coastal Housing, while Paul Whitehead, director of finance and resource for Blackpool Housing Company, has joined the CLEVR Money Supervisory Committee.