As it prepares for another five-year term, Poole BID has appointed six new directors.

They join two directors who are continuing. Chairman John Grinnell will stay in the role until a replacement from the new intake is elected in his stead.

Jacqui Rock, the BID manager, will be assisted by Wendy King who is the newly appointed operations manager.

The new team is developing plans for the town as it comes through the pandemic and looks ahead to the summer season.

Jacqui said: “The shadow of Covid still hangs over businesses in the town, especially those in retail and hospitality.

“As a BID we will continue to work for the business community and the new directors are drawn from a diverse range of sectors.

“John Grinnell, manager of the Dolphin Centre, has been chairman for five years and is staying on until he is replaced in a matter of weeks when he will step down from the board.

“His work and tireless efforts for the town have been vital in helping businesses through the pandemic.

“Our focus now is to help create the best business environment we can for all our levy-payers.

“The new directors are full of energy and ideas and our aim is to make Poole as successful as it can be.”

The new directors are: Cllr Philip Broadhead, BCP’s deputy leader and cabinet member for development and regeneration, Cllr Stephen Baron, lead member for Poole Rejuvenation and Regeneration on BCP Council, chairman of Poole Heritage Action Zone and ward councillor for Parkstone, Sara St George, head of sales and marketing and deputy CEO, Lighthouse, Nikki Honer head of marketing, Go South Coast, Louise Russell, finance manager, Rubicon People Partnership and Emma Gibbs – retail director, Specsavers.

Those directors remaining are Mark Kiteley of Rawlins Davy Solicitors and Mediators and Jeanette Walsh, owner of Truly Scrumptious.

Ian Girling, chief executive of Dorset Chamber, is staying on as an adviser.