Malcolm Cowley elected TTBS president

Malcolm Cowley, of Coillte Panel Products, has been elected national president of the Timber Trades’ Benevolent Society (TTBS) at the society’s annual general meeting on May 9. He takes over from Dilwyn Howells, of Premier Forest Products, who has completed his two-year tenure.

sspencer May 13, 2013

Mr Cowley said he was honoured to accept the role as national president and said he would do "all in my power to ensure the TTBS work continues and is made known to the people who need us".

He said the TTBS members had a common target of raising sufficient funds and of increasing awareness of the society among potential beneficiaries.

"It’s a continuing challenge," said Mr Cowley. "The TTBS is not as well recognised as it should be. We’re all ambassadors for the society and must make sure people are aware of us."

Also at the AGM, Robert Bruce, of MH Southern was appointed national vice-president and treasurer while Richard Bagnall, of Robbins Timber, has become a trustee. Mr Bagnall’s former TTBS position as investment manager has now been taken by John Taylor, who is chief executive of Wyckham Blackwell and treasurer of the Midlands TTBS.

In a meeting prior to the AGM the TTBS decided to increase beneficiaries’ quarterly allowance from £115 to £150.

Last year TTBS beneficiaries received benefits and grants totalling £98,111.