RBH Bids Farewell

Moira Richardson, Mayor, Councillor Jim Gartside, Eugene Wilson

On the eve of a year that promises to be the start of a bright new future as a mutual, Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) celebrated the careers of two individuals who helped lay the foundations of the unique organisation.

Last Friday, RBH paid tribute to the retirement of Development Director, Eugene Wilson and Governance Manager and Secretary, Moira Richardson who have been integral to the growth of the organisation from its birth as an ALMO through to the very present.
Surrounded by friends and colleagues, they were each presented with their retirement gifts and some kind words by Chief Executive, Gareth Swarbrick at an invitational lunch held in their honour at the Town Hall.

Eugene joined RBH in August 2002 after working for the Council’s Technical Services Department since 1979. He had previously begun his career with longstanding Rochdale building firm R&T Howarth.

He established and managed the team that delivered RBH’s Major Investment Programme between 2002 and 2006 and continues to maintain properties to the Decent Homes Standard.

Gareth said: “Eugene has made a massive contribution to improving the standard and condition of tenants’ homes across the borough during his time with RBH. His calmness, dedication and good humour will be much missed by colleagues and tenant activists alike.”

Described as supportive, compassionate and extremely dedicated, Moira has played a key role in making sure that the RBH Board has operated effectively since 2002.

Gareth said: “Over the past 18 months she has worked tirelessly to help develop the new mutual structures and has never been afraid to ask difficult questions or challenge conventional thinking. She will be much missed!”

RBH would again like to thank Eugene and Moira for the years they spent with the organisation, they will be greatly missed but everyone wishes them both the very best for the future!