A CHARITY which supports young people and their families across Dorset has bid a fond farewell to its CEO after 17 years at the helm.

Dorset Youth Association says young people across the county owe a ‘debt of gratitude’ to Dave Thompson for his tireless work to raise their aspirations and improve their health and wellbeing, as he retired from the role.

The association has appointed Mike Bennett as his successor.

Dorset Youth Association has been supporting youth clubs, groups and individuals across Dorset since 1943 and celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2013 in front of HRH The Earl of Wessex. It runs a number of volunteering projects and expeditions, as well as providing emotional and practical support to help young people further their education, find work opportunities and raise their aspirations.

Mr Thompson said: “Over the past 17 years I have always been impressed by the energy, skills and enthusiasm of the volunteers, staff, Trustees and members of local management committees who run youth clubs and groups throughout our beautiful county.

“This year has been extremely difficult for most of us but particularly for young people. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your hard work and commitment and pass on my best wishes for the future. I would also like to thank all of the staff and Trustees at DYA for their help and support over many years and finally, I would like to welcome my successor, Mike Bennett to DYA.”

New CEO Mr Bennett, a qualified youth worker, thanked Mr Thompson for his hard work and dedication over the past 17 years – and sent a message to groups needing support that the association would be on hand to ensure they could reopen safely under government guidelines. He said he was looking forward to going out to visit clubs so services could be designed to offer the best support.

Allen Knott, Chairman of the Board of Trustees said: “We are delighted to welcome Mike as our new CEO. He replaces Dave Thompson who has done a magnificent job over the last 17 years. The Trustees recognise that they, the staff and the young people of Dorset owe a debt of gratitude to Dave. His dedicated leadership, vision and drive has improved the lives of so many of Dorset’s young people.

“Mike comes to us with a wealth of expertise and experience. He knows and understands the issues relating to Dorset Youth and we are confident that he will ensure that our organisation continues to be both relevant and effective. He will, I am sure, be spending time meeting representatives of other youth organisations and building on the good relationships that already exist."