A grey haired man with glassed stands in a room next to a spider plant.

The former CEO of Guernsey Cricket will take up a new role as the first dedicated fundraising manager of Guernsey Chest and Heart LBG.

Mark Latter, who held his previous role for 15 years, said he was attracted to the fundraising role because it is something close to his own heart.

He said: “My father died of a sudden heart attack at the age of 67 shortly after retiring.”

“Also, having worked with sports enthusiasts for many years, many of whom don’t always visit their GP, being able to do my bit and help raise awareness of such a worthy cause feels like completely the right thing to do.”

Mr Latter will focus on identifying long-term funding solutions for the charity – which relies entirely on donations and sponsorships – as demand for the service is increasing. 

He said: “Raising awareness of preventative healthcare and the role the charity plays within our health system is really important to me, especially as the role volunteering plays within the community is finally being acknowledged as a vital contribution to our community.

“It’s all about care and compassion.”

Giving back

Mr Latter moved to Guernsey to work in financial services more than 40 years ago, after visiting his uncle and aunt for many years before.

Mr Latter said: “My father dying made me reassess my own life choices and so I left a well-paid role in the finance sector and took on the role at Guernsey Cricket to satisfy two passions – sport and giving back to the community.

“I hope that I can continue to make a positive contribution to the community through my new role at Guernsey Chest and Heart.”

Chest and Heart Chair, Sally-Ann David, said the role was “vital for raising funds for the charity”.

She said the role would help “ensure a sustainable approach to future support for cardiovascular screening for the Bailiwick”.

Screenings at Guernsey Chest and Heart’s Oberlands centre are available to all islanders provided that they are not currently being treated for a heart or circulatory medical condition.

Appointments can be made by telephoning the centre on 237261.