KEVIN Dean, general manager of the popular Mecca Bingo Club in Kirkland Street is leaving - having accomplished his mission to successfully develop and open the multi-million pound site.

Kevin is moving to new pastures in Knotty Ash, where he will take over the responsibility for another large Mecca Club. But he clearly remembers the day in August, 1994 when he was asked by his company to move to St Helens to launch a new club. He says: "I was delighted to be given the job of developing this prestigious site and was determined to prove that the investment would be successful."

The club opened with a spectacular party in March, 1995 and it is now one of the most successful in the country with more than 40,000 members. It has also become the 'blueprint' for future developments by the Rank-owned company.

Kevin says: "The site was literally a field of weeds the first time I came to have a look around. The first task was to recruit and train more than 100 employees ready for our launch. The team here is absolutely brilliant and took to the new club and one another immediately."

The St Helens team is now so proficient they are used to help train staff for other new Mecca Clubs from all over the region.

Kevin, who has 25 years experience in the bingo industry, says: "I will greatly miss all the wonderful friends I have made in St Helens and am sad to be leaving the club. The staff are all brilliant and I know many of the regular customers by name.

"Bingo is a very social activity and I am proud to be part of such a happy, friendly community here in St Helens. I would like to thank the members for their custom and wish the new manager - who has not been named yet - all the very best of luck."

Kevin leaves Mecca St Helens on Bank Holiday Monday, May 26, and a 'small' leaving party will undoubtedly be staged in his honour. A member of staff told the Star: "We have a few surprises planned to say goodbye to the best-ever boss! It will be a fun evening and customers are advised to arrive early to get the best seats!."

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