Longhurst group's double celebration

This week sees a double celebration at Longhurst Group with Bob Walder enjoying 20 years as Chief Executive of Longhurst Housing Association and then Longhurst Group, after it was formed in March 2000. Also celebrating his 70th birthday this week is Barrie Gosling, the Chairman of Longhurst Group.

After 12 years in the housing sector, Bob joined Longhurst Housing Association on 1st July in 1989 from Staffordshire Housing. The company has come along way with Bob helping to steer the Association and more recently Longhurst Group through a significant period of growth. From the small, local housing association, operating out of a semi-detached house in Mainridge West, Boston with around 800 properties to the successful organisation that it is today, based in modern, energy efficient offices on the outskirts of town. Longhurst Group is one of the largest providers of affordable housing and care services in the Midlands, managing over 15,000 properties.

Bob is also committed to improve local communities as the Chairman of the Regional Housing Group, a member of the Regional Assembly, an Executive Member of Lincolnshire Housing Forum and a Director of the Boston Area Regeneration Company, which supports current redevelopment projects to help shape the future regeneration of the Boston area over the next 10 years.

Despite his success as the Chief Executive, Bob humbly acknowledges the support of colleagues and staff for their hard work and contribution to the growth of the Company: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of my colleagues over the last 20 years. Like any successful organisation, the growth of Longhurst Group has been the result of an excellent team. Their continued efforts are essential as we continue to grow and meet the challenges of today’s current housing and financial climates.”

Barrie Gosling was elected Chair of Longhurst Group in May 2000 following 17 years as a board member of Longhurst Housing Association, for which he was chairman for the last five years.

Barrie added: “I am proud to chair Longhurst Group. We’ve grown steadily year-on-year, providing new homes, housing support and care services as well as improving communities and existing properties. It is a delight to be celebrating my 70th birthday alongside Bob’s achievements over the last 20 years.”

To celebrate Bob’s long service and Barrie’s birthday friends and colleagues across the housing sector attended a dinner at Harlaxton Manor, Grantham on Thursday 25thJune.

Longhurst Group is the parent company of dynamic team of housing companies including Longhurst Homes, Spire Homes, Friendship Care and Housing, Havelok Homes, and Keystone Developments.