Penrith Farmers and Kidd’s have a new non-executive director as its chairman stands down.

Stephen Dunn is a qualified chartered accountant, chartered tax adviser and chartered wealth manager and joins the board of PFK, tone of the largest property and land service groups in Cumbria.

Originally from Preston, Mr Dunn joined the audit practice of KPMG in 1976 and, after a two-year secondment in London, he became a partner in Preston at the age of 34.

While at KPMG, he developed a flair for corporate transactions and quickly gained experience on many acquisitions, flotations and disposals as a founder of corporate finance within KPMG in the North West. During his time as corporate finance partner, he worked on some of the region’s larger transactions and a myriad of project fundraising exercises.

Since leaving KPMG in March 2016, he now works as financial consultant, and holds a number of non-executive appointments.

Mr Dunn said: “I am pleased to be asked to join the board at PFK at an exciting time in the company’s development.’’

Jeanette Brown is standing down as chairman of PFK after 11 years.

John Rowlands takes her place.

Mr Rowlands joined in July 2015 as a non-executive director.

Stephen Lancaster, PFK’s managing director, said: “I am very excited that Stephen has chosen to come on the PFK board as our business continues to evolve. Stephen has had a very successful career at KPMG and brings an exceptional depth of knowledge and experience to the PFK board.

"I am also pleased that John has accepted the role of chairman of the PFK board and I look forward to continuing to work with him closely. I would like to thank Jeanette from the Company and personally for her diligence and guidance while at PFK.’’