REFRESHMENT specialist MannVend has welcomed Trudi Williamson on to its board of directors.

Trudi is deputy chairman of Isle of Man Newspapers and is responsible for the Isle of Man Newspapers Awards for Excellence which was hosted this year by comedian Rory Bremner.

She is married to owner of Isle of Man Kitchens Andrew Williamson and the couple have a daughter, Hebe.

Chairman of MannVend Brian Leahy said: "We are delighted that Trudi has joined our board of directors.

"She brings a great deal of experience that covers many aspects of business and is a well respected member of the Manx business community.

"She is a true asset to our board and she shares our passion for great coffee!"

MannVend employs a team of 30 people serving an extensive range of customers - from small offices, cafes and restaurants to large offices and factories - with catering equipment, hot drinks, vending machines and water coolers.

Trudi said: "I'm thrilled to be involved with such a dynamic company that has built up a solid reputation over the years and continues to be innovative across all the services it provides.

"I'm looking forward to helping contribute to MannVend's future successes."

Based at the Spring Valley industrial estate MannVend has been in business in the Island for 41 years. It is one of the Island's prominent family businesses, being run by three generations of the Leahy family.

Left to right: Tracey Leahy, Brian Leahy, Trudi Williamson, Sally Leahy and Sammy Leahy