A SOUTH Lakeland financial services firm has strengthened its board with the appointment of a new director.

Ruth Power has joined Financial Management Bureau (FMB), based at Shenstone, near Kendal, as company secretary and director.

Ruth, who is the daughter of FMB’s joint founder, the late Les Beavis, joined the company in 2007. She previously enjoyed a successful career in teaching, including management roles in primary schools in Cumbria, London and Leeds.

After returning to the area to start a family, she said it was a natural move to join the family business, and she joins fellow directors Liz Beavis, Gill Forrester and Paul Tuson.

Managing director Liz Beavis said: “We are delighted that Ruth has joined the team. Her knowledge and expertise can add a completely new dimension to the already successful team we have here.”