Paul Downey thanked for 20 years' service

30th October 2009 3:57pm - Return to press releases

Well-known Beverley businessman Paul Downey has been thanked for his contribution to East Riding College during 20 years as a governor.
Mr Downey stepped down from the Board of the East Riding College Corporation in July, having taken the position in 1988, and spending nine years as chairman of Beverley College and three years as inaugural chairman of East Riding College from 2002 to 2005.
Governors and directors of the College presented him with a Portland ship's decanter - engraved with the three College logos used since he became a governor - in recognition of his outstanding contribution to college governance in the East Riding. 

Mr Downey (pictured, centre) said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my colleagues at the College for their most generous gift of the decanter. It will be for me a constant reminder of 22 years of enjoyable service working as a governor for both Beverley and East Riding College. 
"During that time I have had the privilege of making many friends, and working alongside some very able individuals. 
"I hope that my contribution along with the support and teamwork of others has helped in some small way to make the institution the fine establishment that it is today. 
"I wish the College its staff and students all the very best for the future."

David Thacker (pictured, right), the current chairman of the Corporation, said: "It has been a privilege and a pleasure to have known Paul and an honour to have been involved in the presentation of that lovely decanter to mark his retirement from the Board of Governors.
"His contribution to the College's progress and development has been immense because he has used his extensive experience and his expertise with aplomb and success.
"Paul is a delightful person, full of charm and smiles with a willingness to help others whenever it is needed.
"His leadership, guidance and apposite advice have been a source of support and encouragement to his fellow members of the Board. We shall miss Paul but very much appreciate everything he has done for the College."

Principal Derek Branton (pictured, left) said: "In over two decades of service, Paul Downey has made an enormous contribution to East Riding College and one of its predecessors, Beverley College.
"During that time, he has given countless hours to help shape the education of young people and adults throughout the East Riding and further afield, and, on behalf of the staff of the College, I would like to express my gratitude for all his hard work."

The East Riding College Corporation - the governing body - carries ultimate legal responsibility for College activities.  Working closely with the Principal, the Corporation is responsible for the College's strategic aims and objectives and for maintaining its overall policies and procedures.
To find out more about the work of the governors, call Christine Gledhill, secretary to the Corporation, on 01482 306646 or email [email protected]

Ends

Notes to editors:

A photograph of the presentation to Mr Downey is available. For more information, call Matthew Croshaw, marketing and communications manager, on 01482 306612 or email [email protected]