Kerry’s passion for town lands her the dream job

THE Langholm Alliance has announced the appointment of its project assistant to work with its community enterprise manager, Nicol Nicolson.

Kerry Wonfor, who has lived in the town for 13 years, previously worked for Edinburgh Woollen Mill, initially at its headquarters in Langholm and later in Carlisle.

Nicol said: “Kerry demonstrated her passion for Langholm, its people and its ambitions from the start of the recruitment process.

“Like so many of our residents, Kerry hails from elsewhere but has made a firm decision to call Langholm home.

“She has all the fundamental skills we need to progress the community plan to make Langholm a better place to live in, work in and visit by 2030.

“As someone affected by the recent collapse of Edinburgh Woollen Mill, Kerry understands and empathises with the challenges facing the community.

“In her role as a garment technologist, she was, above all, a key communicator with people operating on all levels, demonstrating an ability to negotiate, compromise and get things done.

“We’re hugely fortunate to have her on the team and please don’t hesitate to talk to her as we aim for fruitful and happier times ahead for the community and its people.”

Kerry said: “When I came to work and live in Langholm, I was instantly attracted to the amazing community spirit and friendly atmosphere we have here.

“Sadly, over the last few years I have watched businesses fold or move out of the town, my previous employer included.

“I have seen first-hand the impact this has had on Langholm so I feel very passionate about the regeneration of this fantastic place.

“I truly believe there is no better place to live than Langholm, which makes me passionate about the work I’m helping to implement.

“I’m very appreciative of having a job in the town and I’m really excited about my new role and look forward to the challenge ahead.

“I would love to see real change and see Langholm thrive in being an even better place to live in, work in and visit.”

Denis Male, Alliance chairman, added: “I’m delighted to welcome Kerry to the team.

“It is unfortunate that it is during the current circumstances but, thankfully, there is work which can be done from a distance.”

Denis highlighted a message sent to the Alliance to share with the public from the chairman of South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE).

Denis said: “The message is for all the organisations in Langholm and it’s very heartening that our organisations and their efforts are being recognised by SOSE at this very trying time.

“It gives real hope for continuing development in the community.”

Professor Russel Griggs, SOSE chairman, said: “Our communities are at the heart of everything in southern Scotland.

“As the new economic development agency in the south, we are here to build upon the passion, diversity and experiences in our communities.

“Here in Langholm there is an abundance of this passion and vision and you should all be very proud of your achievements so far.

“Things can only get better for Langholm. You have created great momentum and we’re delighted to support the Langholm people, businesses and community into the future.

“We look forward to working with you in the coming months and years.”