EAMONN McManus has stepped down as chairman of St Helens Economy Board today (Wednesday, December 16).

Announcing his resignation, Mr McManus thanked his fellow Board members and the chief executive of St Helens Borough Council Kath O'Dwyer for their support.

“I have enjoyed my time as the Economy Board Chair, and in particular its consequent input into the Invest in St Helens Initiative and the Ambassador programme, which have each developed strong foundations," said Mr McManus, a former Hong Kong banker.

“I wish the Board and St Helens Borough Council well in their endeavours in taking this important work forward.”

Eamonn, who is the Saints chairman, took up the reins to the then newly formed Economy Board over three years ago, in February 2017 when the campaign launched, which sees St Helens Council work in collaboration with business groups to drive growth.

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St Helens Council chief executive, Kath O’Dwyer, added: “On behalf of the council I would like to thank Eamonn for his contribution to the Economy Board and the Invest St Helens initiative over the last three years.

“The Board and the borough have benefited tremendously from his leadership, he has worked closely with the council, Ambassadors, and many other partners and stakeholders to build strong and enduring relationships and will be profoundly missed as chairman.”

The council now plans to look at the next steps for the Board, with the potential development for a borough wide Place Board.