AN ENTERPRISE agency boss is bowing out after 17 years.

Bob Clark will retire from his post as executive director of Cumbria Rural Enterprise Agency at the end of the year.

His department helped to support businesses through the Foot and Mouth outbreak in 2001 and last year’s flooding that devastated homes, businesses and farms.

Bob was recognised in the Queen’s 2004 Birthday Honours when he was awarded the OBE.

He said: “There have been many changes during the past 17 years when we have grown Cumbria’s smallest agency into a leading business support organisation.

“None of this would have been possible without the superb support I have enjoyed from dedicated staff who have never lost sight of putting the needs of clients first.”

Mr Clark will remain as a voluntary director on CREA’s board.