Two new businesspeople have been appointed to lead Cockermouth & District Chamber of Trade.
Joe Murray is the new chair with Brenda Warriner-Little taking up the deputy chair role.
They take over from accountant William Moore, who has been the chair for the last three years.
Joe has worked in retail for the last 12 years as a shop manager for The Children’s Society charity, with the last four years spent at the charity’s Cockermouth shop.
He has also managed their Whitehaven store, has been overseeing the opening of a new outlet in Keswick, and is heavily involved in their national retail social media campaigns.
Joe said: “I want to give huge thanks to William for his involvement in the chamber, both as chair and as an executive member. I’m looking forward to building on what we’ve achieved to promote Cockermouth still further as a great place to live, work and visit.
“I enjoy the day-to-day challenges and interactions of retail and seen many changes within the sector. The chamber work helps me see what a brilliantly vibrant business community Cockermouth has and I want to support all of it, whether that’s retail, hospitality, professional services or the visitor economy.
“Since joining the chamber two years ago, I have enjoyed being part of a team who not only support our member businesses but also work tirelessly to promote Cockermouth itself.
“I’m looking forward to continuing with our amazing work and promotions, plus some new initiatives along the way.”
Brenda owns WM Walker Jewellers on Cockermouth’s Main Street.
She said: “I became a part of the chamber of trade as I wanted to meet like-minded people who were passionate about local businesses and who want to achieve a positive difference.
“I sincerely hope I can bring new ideas and continue to see growth in this beautiful town.
“We’ve already got a great town magazine, website, e-newsletters and a rapidly increasing social media presence. We’re involved in events and loads of initiatives to raise the profile of Cockermouth. We are shouting about how great it is on a national stage. I am excited to see what we can do next.”
