After helping steer a historic village institution from financial difficulty to a break-even position, a prominent figure at its helm has decided the time is right to step aside.
The chairman of The Barlow Memorial Institute in Edgworth has stepped down from the role after nearly two years, citing family circumstances and other commitments.
John Marriott announced his resignation as chair in a letter to fellow trustees, but said he intends to remain on the board.
Mr Marriott said he could no longer devote the time needed to give the position his "full attention".
He said: "Due to family circumstances and other commitments, I don't have the time to spend every day to give my role my full attention.
"I still wish to remain as a board member, but after nearly two years and with changing times, I have concluded that being a board member is sufficient for me now."
In his resignation statement, Mr Marriott reflected on the financial position of the charity when he became chair.
He said the institute was originally "in financial trouble" and was losing money each month, adding that he was leaving the organisation in a healthier position.
The Barlow Memorial Institute is a volunteer-led charity at the heart of village life in Edgworth.
The historic site includes a café, bar, library, function hall, woodland walks, sports facilities and community spaces.
Mr Marriott highlighted several achievements during his tenure, which he said helped improve finances and reduce waste.
Among them was work to place the Reading Room café on a more secure footing alongside staff and volunteers.
He added: “Working with Jaz and Jenny Coleman to put the Reading Room on an even footing. Thanks to the staff in there who do sterling work to make the café a success.”
He also pointed to a programme of tree safety work across the grounds, saying dangerous and problematic trees had been made safe or removed in line with health and safety requirements.
Further achievements included negotiating leases with Edgworth Cricket Club and the bowling club to generate income for the institute while strengthening relationships between the organisations.
Mr Marriott also oversaw the conversion of three vacant storerooms within the Barlow building into office space to create an additional revenue stream.
Paying tribute to staff and volunteers, he thanked those involved in the Reading Room café and the facilities team for their contribution to the institute.
He said: "We should all understand that the Barlow is a charity that only has financial responsibility for the Barlow and works in conjunction with the Cricket Club and Bowling Club for the purpose of a centre for village life."
The board is expected to appoint a new chair in due course.
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