New Chair Appointed for Coalfields Regeneration Trust

The Coalfields Regeneration Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Linda McAvan as its new Chair of the Board of Trustees after a competitive interview process.

Since 1999, the Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) charity has been dedicated to building prosperity and opportunity for the 5.7 million people living in former coalfield communities in England, Scotland and Wales.

Linda McAvan is the Executive Director for European Relations at the European Climate Foundation (ECF). Between 1998 and 2019, Linda served as the Labour MEP for Yorkshire & Humber during which time she led a number of initiatives relating to climate, development and public health in the European Parliament.

Prior to being elected Linda worked for the Coalfield Communities Campaign, which played a key role in the establishment of the CRT and also worked for Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council on economic regeneration in former coalfield areas. Linda McAvan was awarded an OBE in 2020 for her charitable and political services.

Linda McAvan will take on the role of Chair of the Coalfields Regeneration Trust from Peter McNestry, who has chaired the Board of Trustees at the CRT since 2008 and is standing down for personal and family reasons.

Linda McAvan, Chair of the Board of Trustees at the Coalfields Regeneration Trust said:

“Improving lives in our former coalfield communities has always been a subject close to my heart and I have seen the fantastic work being done by the Coalfields Regeneration Trust over many years.

“I am delighted and honoured to be joining the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and working with our communities and partners to continue the vital work to bring hope and new opportunities to some of the most deprived parts of the UK.”

“I would also like to thank Peter McNestry for his many years of dedicated service and I look forward to building on the strong legacy he leaves behind.”

Nicky Wilson, Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees at the Coalfields Regeneration Trust said:

“We are incredibly pleased to have Linda McAvan joining us as our new Chair of the Board of Trustees at the Coalfields Regeneration Trust.

“Linda brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and passion to us. Her commitment to coalfield communities is second to none and we are looking forward to working with her in the years ahead.”

“I would also like to thank Peter McNestry, personally and on behalf of the whole organisation, for his years of dedication and hard work. The CRT is in the strong position it is in today thanks to him.”

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