A RETIRED accountant has been handed the chains to lead a town’s business community – almost 25 years since he last held the position.

Martin Spittle, formerly of Colston Bush and Seymour Taylor, became the new president of Marlow’s Chamber of Trade and Commerce at the group’s AGM at the Crowne Plaza hotel last night.

Mr Spittle - who retired this year - took over from solicitor Tim Graham, who for a year held the role representing the great and the good of town businesses and boosting trade.

Upon taking the president’s chair for the first time since 1990, he said: “First of all, I would to thank Tim, he is totally committed and does an enormous amount of work behind the scenes as well as at meetings.

“We were very fortunate to have the benefit of his hard work and leadership over the last year.

“The objective to keep Marlow vibrant, beautiful and the jewel of the Thames will continue for residents and businesses alike.

“I hope to make the most of the expertise we have and we do have a considerable number of talented businesspeople who have a huge amount to offer.”

He joked that when he was last president 24 years ago, the main subjects being addressed by the Chamber – such as parking problems and business balance in Marlow – were largely the same.

Outgoing president Mr Graham said the chamber enjoyed a productive year lobbying for the interests of Marlow businesses and said there are now plans to link up with the businesses of Marlow Bottom.

Thanking the committee for their help, he said the main threat to Marlow was ensuring a healthy retail mix and keeping the balance between business and residential premises in town.

And with new retail developments near Cressex and at Handy Cross, he said businesses “must be alive” to the danger of these drawing customers away from the High Street.

Stalwart member Lance Slater was given honorary lifetime membership after stepping down from the executive committee.

And Jonathan Heighway put his name forward for vice president in the absence of Mark Alliston.

The meeting also heard from two speakers – aspiring Paralympian Hattie Little and Buckinghamshire Business First chairman Alex Pratt.

Marlow Chamber of Commerce has over 100 members, including well-known town business figures such as Bernard Burger, Paul Deriaz, Geoff Jolliffe and honorary member Michael Shanly.

The group organises a series of events throughout the year to boost business in Marlow.

Its next outing is annual town festive favourite Late Night Shopping on December 4, which will feature real life Star Wars characters and a rumoured appearance from Darth Vader.