IT’S all change at the top at York Retail Forum as chairman Frank Wood hands over the reins after almost ten years.

Mr Wood, who owns Braithwaite Jewellers in Goodramgate, and was the first permanent chairman to be appointed to the forum, is stepping down from the role in the autumn.

He will be handing over the post to Phil Pindar, who has been a forum member for three years through his business Cuff and Co in Shambles.

Mr Wood was one of the founding members of the retail forum almost a decade ago, at a time when there was only five members, each taking turns to chair the meetings.

Speaking about his proudest achievements during his tenure, Mr Wood said: “One of the major things was Lendal Bridge. It had such a devastating affect on city centre retailers while it was closed and the retail forum was instrumental in getting the bridge reopened.

“Then there’s the BID. The majority of the bill payers are retailers, and we were involved in the very early stages with the city team. That was an extremely successful process, and there’s some really good things coming from the BID.

“Retail has changed in York, we have increased out of town development and a large challenge from the internet. York is a destination centre and we are very lucky but retail has changed. You have to have to be multifaceted to survive.”

Mr Wood said he will miss all elements of chairing the forum, in particular speaking regularly with the city’s retailers.

He added: “It’s vital that York has this connection with its retailers, that the local authority has this contact to understand the issues facing retailers.

“I am very happy to leave the forum in the hands of Phil, he has some very good ideas.”

Mr Pindar said he wants to introduce a written mandate for the forum, outlining keys areas to tackle, including extending the pedestrianisation of the city centre and introducing fairer parking charges. He said: “I knew Frank was standing down and I have learnt of all the hard work he has done. I was keen to make sure it carries on as I think its critical that we have a voice for the retailers in York.”