DARLINGTON Building Society officials aim to press on with the mutual’s growth, but its longer term future will be led by a new boss after Mr Fyfe announced his departure.

The chief executive will leave at the end of 2018, having joined in 2014, to take up another position in the financial sector.

The Northern Echo understands his new post will be based in the Midlands.

Praising Mr Fyfe’s impact at the society, which late last year moved into a larger head office, off Darlington’s Yarm Road, new chairman Jack Cullen said the Scotsman, who is a Motherwell FC fan, will be greatly missed.

He added: “Everyone is very sorry to see Colin leave.

“He has made a significant contribution to the society and helped to clearly shape its future.

“We are delighted he will continue to lead the delivery of our plan until the end of 2018, and wish him every success for the future.”