A NEW chairman has been appointed to lead the Shaftesbury and District Chamber of Commerce.

Jim Chetwode has taken on the role, as the organisation thanked outgoing chair Virginia Edwyn-Jones for her service to the town’s business community.

In a statement, the chamber said Virginia had steered the organisation through “incredibly tough times” and praised her dedication to Shaftesbury and its traders.

Mr Chetwode now steps into the role alongside a newly appointed board, with the chamber describing a “real sense of momentum” and a number of plans in development.

The chamber said its work often goes on behind the scenes, supporting major town events and leading initiatives designed to benefit Shaftesbury as a whole.

It signalled an ambition to expand that role in the coming months.

Among the developments highlighted is the formation of a new North Dorset Tourism group.

The chamber is also working more closely with other chambers across the north of the county, with the aim of giving businesses a stronger collective voice on issues affecting the area.

The organisation is encouraging more businesses to join, saying increased membership will strengthen its ability to support the town and surrounding villages.

Membership offers benefits including promotion, networking opportunities, practical advice and the chance to volunteer at local events.

Businesses of all sizes, from sole traders to larger employers, are invited to get involved as the chamber looks to build on its recent work and shape the next phase of growth for Shaftesbury.