Annual General Meeting 2025 | About us | Halton Chamber of Commerce & Enterprise

Halton Chamber Celebrates Successful AGM and Highlights Achievements

Halton Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual General Meeting on 2^nd December, bringing together members to reflect on the Chamber’s achievements and set priorities for the year ahead.

The AGM celebrated the Chamber’s work in hosting the prestigious Halton Business Awards, supporting skills development across the Borough and it’s work on the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), to strengthen opportunities for businesses and residents alike.

Board Appointments, Resignations, and Re-elections

The meeting continued with an appointment of Paul Woods from Proactive Despatch Ltd to the board. Ian Hayhoe was reappointed as Chair for the coming year, with Stephen Nickson as 1st Vice Chair and Robin Tudor as 2nd Vice Chair. David Pearman and Stephen Young stepped down from their roles as Directors.

Ian Hayhoe - Chair of Halton Chamber
Stephen Nickson - 1st Vice Chair of Halton Chamber
Robin Tudor - 2nd Vice Chair of Halton Chamber

Rachael Owen, CEO of Halton Chamber, said:

“Today’s AGM was a welcomed reminder of the impact our Chamber has across both Widnes and Runcorn. From championing local enterprise through the Business Awards to driving skills development with the LSIP, we are proud to serve our members and support the wider community. The Chamber continues to deliver a breadth of services and support to ensure organisations have access to quality training, can successfully trade internationally and have access to reliable and independent advice and information. As a totally independent, not for profit organisation we work in partnership to ensure that Halton organisations are well represented, connected and informed. I’m very grateful to all our members as with their help, we are building a stronger, more informed and better supported local economy.”

Ian Hayhoe, Chair of Halton Chamber, added:

“The AGM gave us the chance to celebrate the Chamber’s successes and look ahead with confidence. Our focus remains on ensuring Halton businesses have the support, recognition and skills they need to thrive.”

The AGM also voted in Cllr Mike Fry and Robin Tudor to one more serve on the Board and welcomed new Board member, Paul Woods, Owner of Pro-active Despatch. Paul brings with him a wealth of experience in logistics and business growth. Under his leadership, Pro-active Despatch has become a trusted courier and delivery partner across the North West, known for its reliability, customer focus and innovative approach to service. Having previously been a winner at the Halton Business Awards, Paul also achieved third place in the Stellio’s Awards, a recognition that highlights his entrepreneurial drive and the success of Pro-active Despatch in a competitive field. His achievements further strengthen the Chamber’s leadership team and its commitment to excellence.

The Chamber also reaffirmed its dedication to fostering collaboration, innovation and enterprise, ensuring Halton continues to be a vibrant place to set up and do business.

Jason Newton, Managing Director for Redrow NW, said: “We were very proud to sponsor this year’s Large Family Business of the Year category and our heartfelt congratulations go to Aqueous, as deserving winners. It’s an honour to once again be involved with the Halton Business Awards for 2023, an event which gets bigger and better every year and showcases the very best of the borough.”