New chief executive takes the helm at Churchill China

CERAMICS manufacturer Churchill China has confirmed the appointment of David O’Connor as Chief Executive with immediate effect.

O’Connor replaces Andrew Roper at the helm of the Staffordshire firm following the latter’s retirement after more than 40 years with the firm. He will remain a member of the board in a non executive capacity.

Churchill said: “It is difficult to overstate the role that Andrew has played in the development, culture and success of the Churchill business. The board wishes to thank him for his work and support across many years.”

O’Connor joined the Churchill board in 1999 and has been Chief Operating Officer since 2010. He has worked for Churchill across several functions since joining the group in 1991. He has been closely involved in both the development and implementation of the group’s current strategy.

Hummingbird draws down $10m for latest gold mine

BIRMINGHAM-registered gold exploration firm Hummingbird Resources, which has assets in Mali and Liberia, has said that its wholly owned subsidiary, Trochilidae Resources, has drawn down the full $10m loan made available under the Taurus Mining Finance Fund Bridge Facility.

The facility, announced earlier this month, is the first phase of a two-phase debt facility that will enable Hummingbird to fund the construction of the Yanfolila project in Mali through to the first gold production, targeted for the end of 2015.

The drawn down funds will be used to cover Front End Engineering and Design (FEED), detailed engineering, drilling, associated optimisation studies and long-lead capital equipment.

On completion of the Yanfolila plant design and associated optimisation studies and satisfaction of certain conditions precedent, Taurus will provide $75m under a five-year facility for the purpose of refinancing the bridge facility and financing the development costs for the Yanfolila scheme.

Poundland sends AGM details to shareholders

BLACK Country discount retailer Poundland has released details of its first annual general meeting since its flotation on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM).

The AGM will be held at Poundland’s offices at Wellmans Road, Willenhall, on Wednesday September 19 at 11am.

The company has posted to shareholders copies of its Annual Report and Financial Statements for the period ending March 30, 2014 together with formal notice of the AGM.