A LONG-STANDING boss of Colchester Foodbank has stepped down after dedicating years of his career to helping thousands of residents in need.

Mike Beckett has announced he is moving on from his role as chief executive of the charity after nearly seven years.

During his tenure he has grown the organisation in numerous ways, be it financially or geographically.

He steered Colchester Foodbank through growth and change, expanding volunteer numbers by 850 per cent and increasing income by more than 1,000 per cent.

Colchester Foodbank's volunteers also won the 2023 King's Award for Voluntary Service, which was “by far the most meaningful” to the stalwart boss.

Gazette: Leaving - Mr Beckett was a part of the team for nearly seven yearsLeaving - Mr Beckett was a part of the team for nearly seven years (Image: Submitted)

Speaking about leaving the charity Mr Beckett said: “I have been there seven years, and when the new chair came in, it was another three-year commitment and I thought it was good to let it be overseen by new people.

“After winning the King’s Award I thought there was not much else I could do.

“Of course, my dream scenario would be to leave because the Foodbank needed to close due to lack of demand.

“But perhaps the second best is to leave the charity in a strong position financially, geographically and most importantly, with a strong team to steer it forward.

"It has been an honour and privilege to work as part of such a dedicated, skilled, hardworking team of extraordinary and generous people. 

“I am proud of all we have accomplished together, and it is my hope the team following me will bring new insight and energy and enable Colchester Foodbank to go from strength to strength in the fight against poverty.

“I wish them all the best.”

Gazette: Welcome - Armin Lange and Nikki Ranson are the new co-directors of Colchester FoodbankWelcome - Armin Lange and Nikki Ranson are the new co-directors of Colchester Foodbank (Image: Public)

Armin Lange and Nikki Ranson, who have spent four years at the foodbank, will become the new co-directors of the charity.

Nikki, along with Armin, who served three years as the warehouse manager, said their aim is “to make a personal impact in the fight against food poverty”.

In a joint statement, they said: “Embarking on this journey fills us with genuine excitement and honour.

“We are thrilled to continue this partnership with a fantastic team of volunteers and look forward to forging partnerships that go beyond the ordinary.

“This venture is more than a role, it's a heartfelt commitment to positive change within the organisation and the community.”