THE man behind Harrogate's Chamber of Trade and Commerce is stepping down from his role after more than a decade as chief executive.

Brian Dunsby has announced he will leave the voluntary position when his current term of office expires in next Spring.

Mr Dunsby has led Harrogate Chamber since 2002, helping to dramatically increase average attendance at each monthly meeting to around 100 local business people.

Together with the team from his business Perlex Associates, made up of his wife Beryl, and the Secretariat of Maggie Hall and Chris Muir, Mr Dunsby will step down at the Chamber's next AGM in May 2016 after 14 years at the helm.

Chamber president Mike Shaw said: "Anyone who has attended a chamber meeting, joined as a member, or attended any event or meeting where the chamber has been represented, will have seen the incredible amount of hard work and dedication given by Brian and his team on a near full-time basis.

"As an organisation, we have been extremely fortunate to have their support for the last 14 years.

"While we are very sorry to see Brian and the team step down, we wish them all the best as they continue with other aspects of their work, and enjoy some well-earned time off.

"Meanwhile, the chamber management group will continue to work hard for local businesses, offering the support and representation they have enjoyed over many years."

Although stepping back from the chamber, Mr Dunsby will continue as a director of Yorkshire Business Market.

Mr Dunsby said: "We have thoroughly enjoyed working with the business community, however, we believe that now is the right time to step back and allow a new team to take over his thriving local Chamber."

Harrogate Chamber is now inviting any members interested in taking over the role of chief executive, or in providing administrative support, to send an email to president@harrogatechamber.org by November 30.