AN organisation dedicated to supporting professionals and business owners across Worcestershire has announced the appointment of a new chairman.

Worcestershire Advance, who provide support to people across the county, have appointed Rob Pearce as chairman.

Mr Pearce was a founding director of Worcestershire Advance and has been involved in the organisation since it launched in September 2017.

James Osborne has also been appointed vice chairman, and the two replace former chairman Chris Orr and vice chairman Ben Mannion who have completed their two-year tenure.

Mr Pearce said: "We would like to thank Chris and Ben for their hard work in getting Worcestershire Advance up and running.

"As the new Chair I am looking forward to continuing their hard work, whilst growing the organisation based on the feedback we have collected from our members over the last 24 months."

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This summer, the organisation hosted a summer fete to raise funds to support 16-18 year-olds in the county by providing mental health awareness and training courses across 11 schools and sixth forms.

Departing chairman Chris Orr will remain involved in organising the project and seeing it through to completion at the end of this year.

He said: "I am proud of what all of the directors and members of Worcestershire Advance have achieved together over the last 2 years, and I am excited to continue working with Rob and the other directors through the remainder of 2019 to implement our mental health project.

"After that I will enjoy remaining a member and benefitting from the events, support and development opportunities that Worcestershire Advance offers."

Membership to Worcestershire Advance is for individuals living and working in Worcestershire who are looking to grow and maximise their career or business opportunities.

For more information, go to www.worcsadvance.co.uk