New chairman of Berwick Chamber of Trade outlines his hopes

At its AGM, John Robertson was elected vice chairman, with John Gardiner re-elected as treasurer.

The new chairman is a partner at The Walls B&B and has served as secretary for the past three years.

He said: “On behalf of our members, I would like to pass on my thanks to the outgoing chairman, John Haswell, for his dedicated contribution to the Chamber over his seven years as chairman and many more as a member.”

He said his priorities for the forthcoming year would be influenced by the view and opinions of members but he outlined an aim to build the Chamber into an effective and respected lobbying force representing the interests of local business.

He wants to continue to work as a member of the Berwick Welcome Visitor Project to help develop real improvements to the town’s tourist offering and help to deliver resulting improvements to the local economy.

The new chairman also hopes to work closely with the local authorities, both challenging and supporting their plans; to encourage more active involvement from members; and to improve the level of communication to members.

He hoped the Chamber’s resources could used to good effect, sticking to the principle that it will support initiatives and events that will encourage greater footfall.