Shropshire Chamber boss resigns in row with deputy

The president of Shropshire Chamber of Commerce has resigned after a row with his deputy. Tony Randall stepped down with immediate effect last night.

It follows a week of arguments over his position, which saw vice-president Nick Chavasse leave in protest at Mr Randall.

He claimed he was holding power over aspects of the Chamber even after the end of his presidency.

In a letter sent to Chamber members, Mr Randall said: "The personal attacks and surrounding events of the last two weeks have affected my family far more than anyone can imagine.

He added: "I am taking this action to put an immediate stop to the vocal minority of members and non-members who wish to undermine the integrity of the Chamber."

The Chamber's board will now hold an outstanding general meeting on Tuesday at which the leadership of the body will be discussed.

For now, it is without a president but the Chamber constitution does not demand that one is in place.

Staff will continue under the guidance of managing director Richard Sheehan.

Mr Chavasse is still a board member, as his resignation was to take effect from mid-December, so he can take his place at the emergency board meeting.

Keith Winter, who is also a vice-president of the Chamber, said: "I'm very sad. We have lost a talented individual, who gave his heart and soul to Shropshire Chamber. It must have been a momentous decision for him to make."