Corston resident John Kadwell has stepped forward as the new chairman of the Malmesbury and St Paul Without Residents' Association.

The 15-year-old association faced winding down last month because it could not find volunteers to fill the crucial posts of chairman, treasurer and secretary.

Mr Kadwell said: "I was reluctant to step forward as chairman because I felt the position should be filled by a person from Malmesbury.

"But eventually I agreed rather than let the association collapse.

"Also, Malmesbury is just the centre of a large area of responsibility.

"The surrounding area of St Paul Without is just as important."

The area of St Paul Without is made up of the parishes of Corston, Rodbourne and Milbourne.

Mr Kadwell was previously chairman of the association from October 1996 to October 1999.

The position of treasurer was filled by association committee member, Tony Fowler, but the post of secretary has yet to be filled.

Mr Kadwell said: "It will be difficult without a secretary, but we will solve problems as we come to them."

Mr Kadwell said he was keen to hear from anyone who would like to volunteer for the position.

He would also like to hear from any residents who want the association to take up issues or problems on their behalf.

Mr Kadwell can be contacted on (01666) 823589.