Blacon resident Nigel appointed to Avenue Services board

24 January 2023

Avenue Services is delighted to welcome Blacon resident Nigel Pell-Ilderton to its board as a Community Director.

Based in Blacon, Avenue Services is a joint venture between Sanctuary and Cheshire West and Chester Council providing community, environmental, housing, and youth services for the area.

Nigel has lived in Blacon since July 2021 and has recently retired after a career that saw him serve in the army for eight years, as well as working in the fundraising and education sectors.

Nigel is passionate about Blacon and helping to deliver the best for its residents. He is actively involved with community organisations, including being a peer leader in the NHS and co-chair of governors at Blacon High School.

He said: “I’m delighted to be appointed to the Avenue Services board and look forward to getting to know more about the local area.

“I’ve been impressed with the community and everything that has been achieved in recent years, and I’m passionate about helping to deliver even more facilities and services for our Blacon residents.

“My wife and I felt at home from the moment we moved in and look forward to serving our neighbours, friends and the wider community.”

Alongside Nigel’s appointment, longstanding board member Gus Cairns has been reappointed for a further two-year term.

Gus has lived in Blacon for 69 years and is actively involved in a number of local organisations, including West Cheshire Autism Hub, West Cheshire Mental Health Forum and Chester South Care Community Steering Group. In June 2022 he received an MBE for his tireless volunteering work.

Paul Knight, Head of Avenue Services, said: “I’m really pleased to welcome Nigel onto the Avenue Services board. He brings a wealth of ideas and experience and a genuine passion for helping us make a positive difference for residents in Blacon.

“I’m also delighted that we have retained Gus’ services. He has been a selfless servant to Blacon and we’re fortunate to be able to call on his knowledge, commitment and enthusiasm for a further two years.”