NORTH Ayrshire Council has appointed its first family business advisor in a move that recognises the importance of the sector to the local economy. Anne Blacklock from the council’s Business Growth team has taken up the position after gaining the Advanced Certificate in Family Business Advising qualification offered by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners. Councillor Alex Gallagher, a member of the council’s cabinet for the economy, said: “The majority of businesses in North Ayrshire have a family component to them and they are vital for the future prosperity of the area. By having a fully qualified Family Business Advisor within the Council we can more fully engage with and support our family run firms and help them to manage potential issues while recognising the long term opportunities to further expand.” Ms Blacklock said she looked forward to working with a variety of family run companies.