A STALWART support boss has been feted for the services he has given to Bury and Manchester’s Jewish communities.

Mark Cunningham is chief executive of the Federation of Jewish Services in Prestwich, otherwise known as The Fed.

And he has marked 25 years with the organisation, since joining as a social work student.

His landmark comes in the week that The Fed also debuted their first TV spot on Freeview and Sky.

Mark quickly became a senior social worker for the Heathlands Drive operation, before being named community services director then chief operating officer.

He became chief executive on the retirement of Karen Philips in 2017, taking up his role on April 1.

Mark said: “It might have seemed like an April fool’s joke at first but it has been a privilege to be involved with this organisation for so long.

“I love my job, I love coming to work, and I love the people I work with – I really couldn’t ask for more.”

The involvement he has has been lauded by former Fed chairman and recently-appointed honorary patron Mark Adlestone.

“We knew from day one that Mark’s appointment as Chief Executive was the right one,” he said.

“His guidance for many years, but particularly through the pandemic, has been a constant reassurance to our staff and clients, and stands out as a beacon of all The Fed is proud to represent.

“The challenges over the last 12 months have required outstanding leadership, and we have been fortunate indeed to have Mark in position.”

Current Fed chairman Bernie Yaffe presented Mark with a certificate to mark his quarter century with the outfit.

He said: ““Mark’s 25 years of incredible service to The Fed has been matched only by his unstinting service to the wider Jewish community during that time.

“His motivation and leadership shadow extends far and wide – such as chairing the National Association of Jewish Care Homes, as well having significant influence on social care policy at both a national and local governmental level.

“Mark is the reason I can sleep easily at night as chairman of The Fed. The incredible way he has led us through the last 12 months proves beyond doubt he is the right man for the job.”