A NEW chief executive officer has been appointed to run Pendle Leisure Trust, which includes West Craven Sports Centre in Barnoldswick.

Simon Gwynne succeeds former chief executive, Alison Goode, who is retiring after more than eight years.

He said: “I am extremely excited to have this opportunity as the CEO of Pendle Leisure Trust and am looking forward to working with our partners Pendle Borough Council in helping our communities to be healthy and active across our sites in Pendle."

With more than 29 years in the leisure industry, Simon's experience includes swimming teaching to being a general manager for multiple sites and working in a variety of regions from Herefordshire to Wiltshire to Bridgend.

He comes to Pendle after nine years working in Bridgend, South Wales where he was a manager for Halo Leisure.

Simon added: "The energy uplifts and cost of living crisis have created a wide series of challenges for us all and working collaboratively within the region to support the corporate objectives for the council and with our local health partners in tackling health inequalities is a key focus for the role over the next few years.”

The trust's former chief officer, Alison Goode said: “The last eight and a half years as CEO of Pendle Leisure Trust has been an absolute privilege. My decision to take early retirement is one that I have not taken lightly. I love Pendle Leisure Trust, my job and the people I work with but after 40 years in local government, the time has come to enjoy some “me” time.

"I have been honoured to work with some fabulous people and organisations including the staff at PLT and I would like to personally thank the staff for their unwavering support and commitment to me over the years. In addition, I would also like to thank our loyal customers.

"Even though PLT has faced many challenges over the years including austerity, Covid and the energy crisis, we have and continue to achieve so much by providing and investing in great services, facilities and activities to support the residents of Pendle to lead a healthy and physically active lifestyle."

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Simon to Pendle Leisure Trust.

“It’s so important that local people have access to a wide range of activities which will enhance health and wellbeing in our communities, promoting physical and mental health.

“I very much look forward to working in partnership with Simon to ensure the Leisure Trust continues to provide good quality leisure facilities."

He added: “A big thank you to Alison for all of your hard work and commitment over the years."