The Bournemouth and District Association of Funeral Directors (BAFD) has a new President – Leanne Adimi from Douch Family Funeral Directors.

She was presented with her chain of office by Nick Douch, who has worn it for the last two years and is the managing director of her company.

The association is well over a 100 years old and was a founder member of the Bournemouth Chamber of Trade and Commerce, whose own president was at the changing of the guard.

BAFD exists to support the funeral sector within the area and liaise with local authorities on behalf of its members.

Leanne said: “It is a great privilege to wear the chain of office of an organisation that goes back to the 1890s. I watched Nick in the role over the last two years and saw how much work he did that went unnoticed."

“The funeral business, like any industry, has its issues and often these are best sorted out through an umbrella organisation. I am looking forward to working hard for our members.”

Nick Douch said: “I can’t think of a better person to take the office. Leanne will carry the role forward with passion and purpose. Leadership isn't about titles, it's about presence, values and contribution, all of which Leanne embodies."

“I’m proud to pass the responsibility on to her and I look forward to supporting her in this role.”

Nigel Hedges, President of the Bournemouth Chamber of trade and Commerce, said: “The Bournemouth and District Association of Funeral Directors was a founder member of the Chamber.

“We have worked together for more than a century and I look forward to continuing the tradition with Leanne.”