THE new chief executive of Lancashire's largest building society has pledged 'business as usual' for its loyal staff and customers.

Neil Shoesmith has been appointed chief executive at the Nelson-based Marsden Building Society following the shock death of previous boss Eddie Shapland, who was found hanged at his Burnley home.

Mr Shoesmith, who was a pupil in the year below Mr Shapland at Burnley Grammar School, said Mr Shapland's death had rocked staff at the society, which prides itself on operating in a close-knit 'family' atmosphere.

"What has impressed me over the past few days is that people have got on with their work despite the shock of losing someone who they knew and admired and saw every day in the office," said Mr Shoesmith.

"What Eddie Shapland and I share is a huge depth of experience and expertise within the organisation.

"It helped him and it will help me in the same way. It's not down to an individual, it's a group of individuals who work together to make something a success.

"Within a short space of time the board of directors has approached someone within the society to take over. It shows their confidence in the people that are here." The society employs 186 people at its head office and in branches across the North West.

Mr Shoesmith was born in Burnley and has lived in the area most of his life. He lives with his wife, Valerie and 14-year-old son James.

He qualified as a solicitor and has practised law for more than 25 years, mostly with local firm Donald Race & Newton.

After joining the Marsden in 1989 as company solicitor he continued to work with the law firm as a consultant.

Mr Shoesmith said the Marsden was '100 per cent' committed to staying as a mutual building society and concentrating on its core business of lending and savings.

"I've seen it work over a long period of time," he said. "Without shareholders to pay, the benefits of the society are enjoyed by its members.

"The Marsden is aware of the needs of East Lancashire and the rest of the North West a lot more than other companies based elsewhere."

He added: "There is absolutely no reason why the Marsden Building Society can't continue for the future in exactly the same way.

"Everyone from the most senior staff to the most junior understands the concept of what the Marsden is trying to do."

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