COLCHESTER Foodbank's new co-directors have said they are "excited and honoured" to take on their role after the charity's long-standing boss stepped down.

Armin Lange and Nikki Ranson, who have spent four years at the foodbank, have 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”.

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

In a joint statement, they said: "Embarking on this journey as co-directors fills us with genuine excitement and honour.

"Personally invested, we bring a blend of skills to ensure Colchester Foodbank’s future success. We are thrilled to continue this partnership with a fantastic team of volunteers, we look forward to forging partnerships that go beyond the ordinary.

"Our optimism is grounded in deep respect and trust, effective communication, and shared experiences.

"Having spent four years at the Foodbank, Nikki, along with Armin, who served three years as the warehouse manager, aims to make a personal impact in the fight against food poverty.

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

The news came following former chief executive Mike Beckett's resignation.

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)

Mr Beckett saw the organisation grow financially and geographically, with it expanding volunteer numbers by 850 per cent and increasing income by more than 1,000 per cent during his tenure.

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

On stepping down, Mr Beckett said it had been "an honour and privilege to work as part of such a dedicated, skilled, hardworking team".

“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.”