The British Hardware Federation has elected the first female president in its 110-year history.
Sadie Chalkley of JG Banfield in Tenbury Wells was voted into office as BHF Group President at the federation's agm on April 24. Simultaneously she was re-elected as chairman of the British Hardware Federation division.

Ms Chalkley told members in her inaugural address: "Just like many of you, we are struggling to make a way in the current harsh retail environment, but I am heartened by the fact that my business has survived recessions and hope it is still standing in another 150 years."

Her election means she will lead the federation during its most significant year to date as the BHF is set to merge with the British Shops and Stores Association later this year.

The merged membership will number more than 8,000 and allows the new federation to "build on the extensive influence that will be achieved through weight of numbers," said Ms Chalkley. She added: "I shall be there to ensure that members of both organisations get the political and commercial benefits that have been promised as the basis of the merger."