Credit union pioneer Ken Jackson received the Graham Southall Award at the recent annual general meeting of the Co-op Credit Union.
Now in its fourth year, the award recognises members for outstanding contributions to the organisation.
Mr Jackson has been a member of the credit union’s supervisory committee for 18 years. Currently retired, he has worked for the Co-operative Bank.
He said: “I had no idea I was going to receive this award. It has come as a great surprise as I really enjoy my supervisory work for the credit union.”
Chair David Fawell also said: “I am delighted this award has been presented to Ken who has made such a major contribution to the Co-op Credit Union over many years.”
He added that the credit union was “in good shape”. Last year the Co-op Credit Union granted 2,300 loans. Since being set up in 1998, it has lent over £32m.
“At a time when many families are facing tough financial challenges the credit union offers very competitive interest rates for loans from as little as £100.
“As it was more than 20 years ago when the credit union was established our aim remains to provide members with a simple mechanism for saving and borrowing.
“I am extremely proud that the credit union remains a thriving operation, serving the needs of our more than 8,000 members, and their families, drawn from a range of co-operative and mutual organisations across the UK,” he added.
