A DEDICATED community figure and chairman has handed over the baton after a busy decade of helping others.

Committed Malmesbury League of Friends member David Hide has retired after 12 years as a trustee and seven years as chairman. 

The community group provides funds to help local people with specific medical needs, which are not available from other sources.

Former Malmesbury town councillor Hayley Webb, who has been a trustee for the group for five years, will be taking on the chairman role.

Ms Webb, who was born in Malmesbury, said: “I’m delighted to be taking over from David, who leaves the Malmesbury League of Friends in very good shape.

"I’m confident we can continue making donations that will improve the health and social care services for the people of Malmesbury and surrounding area. 

"I’d like to thank David for his hard work and hope I can follow from his excellent lead.”

Mr Hide said: "During my time as a trustee, we received a generous legacy, which has enabled us to make substantial donations to worthy causes every year. 

"With the league’s finances in a healthy position, I’m sure that Hayley will be able to continue supporting both charitable organisations and needy individuals.”

David has lived in Malmesbury for more than 50 years and is a former chairman of Malmesbury Tennis Club, where he still plays regularly, and a member of Malmesbury Concert Band.