AN executive at one of the North West's largest independent building societies has been rewarded for 25 years' service.

Martin Mulligan joined Nelson-based Marsden Building Society on March 18, 1974, as the office junior in the post room. He quickly moved up the ladder to arrears clerk and on to personnel manager.

Following a spell as administrative services manager and assistant general manager, he was appointed to the executive in 1990 as general manager (operations).

The previous year he had received a law degree from the University of Central Lancashire.

Mr Mulligan was appointed to the society's board of directors last year.

He was presented with a long service award by chief executive Neil Shoesmith and vice chairman Michael Parkinson during a ceremony at the society's head offices in Russell Street.

Mr Mulligan, a serving magistrate, said: "I am delighted to receive this award. Marsden Building Society has played a huge part in my life and I am proud to have reached this stage in my career.

"I have seen many changes in building society life over the past 25 years, most for the better."

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