The chairman of a Weymouth-based community association is stepping down after two years.

Ian Brooke, 81, has made the decision to step down as chairman of the Radipole and Southill Community Association due to health reasons.

Mr Brooke took over the role two years ago and during this time said he’s had some ‘good fun.’

He has lived in Southill for around 16 years now and formerly worked as a marine engineer and freelance photographer before retiring and now spends some of his time volunteering at the Nothe Fort in Weymouth.

One particular event that he particularly enjoyed running as chairman was the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, which took place in Southill in 2022.

He said: “The late Queen’s 70th jubilee was good fun – we joined in with the church, SPARK and the local pub, the John Gregory, who provided a mobile bar – we had a great time even though it rained – it meant that we all got together in the community - I would love to see more of that sort of thing happening.

“These two years have been interesting and, in many cases, enjoyable, but because of increasing age and worsening health I must resign from this post.”

The association is now looking for a new person to take the reins and step up as chairman.

Mr Brooke added: “The chairman doesn’t have to be a resident, but it does help, and we would love it to be someone who lives locally.”

As part of his role, the chairman will visit Southill Community Centre at least once a week and chairs at least three meetings and one AGM a year – Mr Brooke has even offered to help advise the new chairman if necessary.

Although once covid hit, he explained that it was just as easy to talk to people over the phone and via email so the method seemed to stick.

One of the key things that the association has achieved is ‘getting a book sale up and running.’

Mr Brooke added: “We re-instated the book sale and people can come in, leave books and take books for 50 pence and the, money goes towards heating and electric and those costs have gone sky high over the last twelve months.”

If you would like to put your name forward as chairman, email Barry: the.secretary.rsca@gmail.com.