AFTER 27 years service for Mole Avon Trading, including the last 16 as its Chief Executive, Andy Gibson stood down at the end of September. Under his leadership the business has grown from strength to strength with turnover now approaching £20 million, nearly triple what it was when it he took over at the helm.

Originally a farmer owned buying group, Mole Avon's Town and Country Stores at Crediton, Axminster and Okehampton welcome everyone to experience their large offering, including such everyday items as household, pet and gardening products plus its traditional range of rural goods for the smallholding and farming community.

Company Chairman John Lee said: "I would like to thank Andy Gibson for his commitment and leadership as Chief Executive. He has overseen a period of growth and expansion, particularly at our Axminster and Okehampton branches.

"Following a comprehensive search and interview process, the Board of Directors unanimously approved the appointment of Richard Billson as the company's next Chief Executive.

"Richard has been a valued employee of the company for over 30 years and has both the experience and commitment to take this company into a new era."

The Company also includes a Jet fuel station and Spar convenience shop under the Mole Avon Forecourt brand on its site at Okehampton, plus a shop in the High Street at Crediton under the Town and Countrywear brand which is dedicated to ladies fashions and schoolwear, all of which were established under Andy Gibson's leadership.

Commenting on his appointment, Richard Billson told the Courier: "I am excited and inspired by the opportunity to lead Mole Avon into a new era. We have exciting plans to continue to develop our stores in the coming years to be able to not only match but also exceed our customer expectations in the rural and country sector, in which we specialise."

This has been a major landmark in the history of this locally owned business with Richard being only its third man to take over at the top in what is nearly 40 years since the company was founded.