THE owner of an award-winning events company in Shropshire has been appointed as chairman of the Shropshire Business Board.

Beth Heath, of Shropshire Festivals, has taken over from Paul Bennett and has also taken on the role as chairman for the region’s destination management organisation – Visit Shropshire.

The Shropshire Business Board is a business-led, joint private and public sector board which aims to be responsible, with Shropshire Council and partners, for the joint delivery of the new Shropshire Economic Growth Strategy.

Beth said taking the helm at two of the county’s key boards is a huge honour.

She said: “I am immensely proud to be taking on the role of Chairwoman for both boards. Initially it felt a bit daunting, but I truly relish the challenge.

“I have been on the business board for three years now and seen first-hand all the brilliant things it has achieved.

“I want to raise the profile of the board, so more businesses tap into its resources and ability to drive change in economic policy making.

“This is an important time to be driving forward the voice of Shropshire businesses, especially those who have been impacted by Covid.”

Mrs Heath is no stranger to keeping more than one plate spinning – she simultaneously manages Shropshire Festivals, marketing and design agency – Shropshire ThinkTank, online shop, Shropshire Hamper Company.

She also lectures at University Centre Shrewsbury on Events Management, and looks after two young children, two dogs and a herd of sheep.

Beth wants to focus on helping hospitality and tourism in the region as they look at planning their Covid recovery.

She said: “Hospitality and tourism are undeniably two of the hardest hit sectors, so I hope that by becoming chairman of Visit Shropshire as well, my passion for the visitor economy will be a catalyst to help navigate these businesses in a positive direction.

“Through the work of both boards I want to champion Shropshire as a thriving place to live, work, visit, learn and invest in, to people within and outside the county’s borders.

“I have always said I love this county and the network of brilliant businesses it encompasses. I hope that by stepping into these roles I have proved I’m a woman of my word.”