A NEW face has taken over the helm of Tavistock BID (business improvement district) in what could undoubtedly be the most difficult time facing businesses in recent years.

Chris Palmer, of Hansford Bell, has been appointed as the new chair of the BID group, following the resignation of former chair Kevin Hailey of Abode Property Agents.

Chris has been on the Tavistock BID board of directors for the past 18 months and is under no illusion how tough the next few months are going to be for local businesses after the restrictions imposed by the Government in attempting to tackle the spread of coronavirus, but hopes that businesses in Tavistock will stand together and support each other now more than ever.

Chris said: ‘I am extremely pleased to have been voted in as the new chairman of Tavistock BID. Kevin Hailey has done a fantastic job during his term and I hope to continue where he left off.

‘I fully believe the work that the BID has accomplished has had a positive impact on the town, bringing in new visitors and boosting footfall at a time when high streets around the country are struggling.

‘We are now entering what is likely to be the darkest time for the town in a generation, with businesses severely affected by the restrictions imposed by the Government limiting the ability to trade.

‘Now, more than ever, it is important for businesses to support each other and throughout this crisis the BID will be there to support the town in any way we can. Already we have created and published a new app connecting people to their local businesses and I would encourage everyone to take full advantage of this.’

Kevin Hailey chaired the BID group from September 2018 until his resignation this month.

A spokesperson for Tavistock BID said: ‘During his time, Kevin brought a fresh and modern approach to meet some of the changes that the town centre has faced. Under his leadership, the BID delivered a number of new events and promotions, including the Christmas lights switch on and the Customer Service Excellence Awards.

‘His tenure also saw the reach of the town’s Christmas lights being extended, an increase in coach visitors and a renewed entry into South West in Bloom after a period of absence.

‘The BID board would like to thank Kevin for his commitment to the BID and the town.’

For more information about Tavistock BID, visit www.tavistockbid.co.uk