Chris Towne has been elected as the new chairman of the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA).

Towne, who has worked for the family-owned businesses CEA Towne (Ship Riggers) Ltd and Fleetwood Trawler Supply Ltd since 1976, replaces Len Latham, from Bridon International, who is stepping down after two years as LEEA chairman. Towne has spent the previous three decades developing the lifting equipment manufacture and supply side of the Towne group, and was elected to the LEEA board in 2004.

“I’m delighted to lead the team in fully developing LEEA as the international trade association committed to enhancing the skills and training of all those involved in the lifting industry,” Towne said.