I WOULD like to thank the people of Cinderford and surrounding areas for their support during my time as chairman of trustees of the Miners' Welfare Hall, Cinderford.

It is with regret and much deliberation over the last few weeks but I have come to my decision to resign from my post as chair.

A lot of hours and hard work have been put into the hall by all of the trustees and I can not fault anybody's commitment.

It is my understanding a new chair/vice chair will be elected at the forthcoming AGM on Wednesday, October 16.

The charity is currently in a good place with 'Unite the Union' recently taking up rental of space on the lower level.

However this is a boost to income but that alone is not enough.

The current and new committee need the continued support of local people to help the hall keep moving forward.

I wish all the committee success with the future of the hall.

– James Stevens, Cinderford.