MALMESBURY League of Friends (MLof) has elected a new chairman following the retirement of long-standing chair Robin Clark.

David Hide was chosen to succeed Robin, who retired after serving for more than 50 years as a trustee and 20 years as chairman of MLoF.

David has lived in Malmesbury for over 40 years, he is a former chairman of Malmesbury tennis club and is a member of Malmesbury Concert Band.

He was previously the group’s vice-chairman and is a trustee of five years.

He said: “I am greatly honoured to be elected chairman in succession to Rob, to whom MLoF owes so much.

“Although we no longer have our own hospital, there are still considerable demands on our funds, including the Malmesbury Primary Care Centre, Athelstan House, locally based charities and needy individuals.”

Robin said: “Over the last 50 years, there have been many changes both in Malmesbury and to the League.

“When I took over as chairman, our funds were modest and we had a hospital which always needed our help so we were constantly fundraising.

“Recent generous legacies have strengthened our financial position and enabled us to make some substantial donations to both charitable organisations and individuals.”

For more information about Malmesbury League of Friends go to mlof.co.uk