Farewell to Magna Chairman

11/25/2009

Ray Bugler is closing the door on his West Country housing career.

The Magna Housing Association (MHA) chairman is standing down after serving the Dorchester-based organisation for more than 13 years.

Mr Bugler, 62, is a former builder and first joined MHA as a tenants’ representative in 1996.

After joining the organisation’s board, he then became chairman in 2005.

He said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with MHA and it’s been a real pleasure to serve the organisation. I guess I have come a long way, starting as a tenants’ representative to ending up as chairman.

“Magna is very much a better organisation now to the one I joined more than 13 years ago and I’m proud of its achievements. A lot of people have put in a lot of hard work over the years, from management and staff, through to the board members and tenants. I thank them all for their efforts.

“I have met some really nice people and made some good friends over the years and I am sure they will all continue to improve the service offered to residents long into the future.”

To mark Mr Bugler’s retirement, Magna held a special farewell lunch at Athelhampton House, where presentations were made by Group directors.

“It was a lovely send off,” he added, “and I thank everyone for their kindness.

“I would also like to urge more tenants to step forward and get involved with MHA, either as tenant representatives or as board members.

“What residents feel and think is important and there is no better way of getting that message over than by being part of the decision-making process.”

Magna chief executive Graham Colls today paid tribute to Mr Bugler, describing him as a ‘dedicated’ chairman.

He said: “Ray has done  a fantastic job for Magna and its customers over the years .Through all that time, as an unpaid volunteer, he has put in many hours to improve our services to residents and to improve Magna generally.

“His impact, ability and dedication have been shown by how he has progressed through the various levels at Magna, ending up as the tenant chair of MHA.”

He added: “Ray leaves with our grateful thanks for all the good work he has done for us , and our  very best wishes for  the future.”
Meanwhile Mr Bugler will be enjoying life at a more leisurely pace having moved to New Milton in Hampshire, where he intends to spend time pursuing his hobby of beach fishing.