THE president of Okehampton and District Chamber of Trade made an impassioned plea to local businesses at the organisation's annual meeting last week. William Cornish in his annual report said he wished to send a message to the local business community, asking them to consider joining the Chamber. He said: 'There is a lot of talent in this town and district and if only one per cent was devoted to the chamber, think of what could be achieved and by their efforts the whole town would be greatly improved and benefits would be made by business and community alike.' Richard Appleby, the outgoing chairman, stressed how important every business was to the future of Okehampton. 'My experience of chairing the chamber for the past two years has shown clearly the two sides of the coin. 'There is the loyal group of hardworking volunteers who give their time and energy unstintingly for the benefit of all, as shown by the wonderful display of hanging baskets, the superb Christmas lights and the fabulous occasion that is Edwardian evening. 'There is the other side of the coin — our membership is too small to continue to subsidise the other businesses in Okehampton. 'Everyone benefits equally from making Okehampton attractive, whether there is a basket or a Christmas tree on your business or not — people admire the effect throughout the whole district and it has been proved that this directly affects people's inclination to shop or do business there.' At the annual meeting Ian Bailey was elected as chairman of the chamber. Mr Bailey, who chaired the chamber for nine years before relinquishing the post to enable him to devote his time as president of the Rotary Club, said he was looking forward to the coming year and put membership high on his agenda. He said: 'We have a number of projects that will promote Okehampton and we must continue to promote ourselves. ' If we want additional members we must have worthwhile projects, a good social programme and incentives so people want to be a member of a vibrant, vital organisation.' Anyone wishing to join the chamber should contact Janet Gee on 01837 54481 for more information.
