Ian celebrated his 75th Birthday on the 17th July 2024 and has retired his Commission. The Lord-Lieutenant thanks him for his dedication in serving the communities of Rochdale and Greater Manchester and serving for 10 years as a Deputy Lieutenant.
Ian was born in Rochdale in 1949 and is married to Janet. They have one daughter and two grandchildren.
He was educated at Rochdale Technical School for Boys, before joining the family retail business. In 1969 he expanded the business and started a new retail business in art and craft materials, which later developed into fine art and quality gifts. The company traded on Drake Street, Rochdale for over forty five years.
Having been involved in fundraising all his working life, and now retired, Ian continues with his voluntary work with a passion. He is a past member of Rochdale Round Table 55 and currently a member, and past president, of the Rotary Club of Rochdale East as well as a member of Roch Valley forty one club and a past president of the Rochdale Chamber of Trade. Ian was appointed a Justice of the Peace in 1992 and became chairman of the advisory committee for the appointment of Justices; he is presently on the Supplemental list. Ian is a member of The Royal British Legion (Rochdale Branch).
Shortly before retiring Ian formed IJS Promotions, a group that organises charity concerts that have been held throughout the local area using world famous brass bands and raising funds for many local and national charities.
Ian is looking forward to spending quality time with his family and the GM Lieutenancy thanks him and wishes him all the best.