THE chairman of Winchester Business Improvement District has resigned after the organisation won a second term.

Jeremy France stepped down after five years as chairman, with vice chairman Ken Macartney, of Pavilion Clothing, The Square, assuming the role.

Mr France, who will remain on the BID board, said: “I have really enjoyed my chairmanship of the BID over the past five years, but now feel this is an ideal opportunity to hand over the reins to my good friend Ken Macartney.

“The board trusts that he will lead them for an even more successful further five years. I will, of course, still remain as a board member while I have a business in Winchester as this puts me in a position to suggest new ways forward to make the city bigger and better.”

The BID will start its new five-year term in April 2013 and is focusing on crime reduction, waste and recycling and promoting businesses.