THE NEW chairman of the Penzance Chamber of Commerce said he has "large boots to fill" as the former head stood down following more than a decade in the role.

Mike Waters resigned from the position after 12 years and welcomed new chairman, Dick Cliffe, at the chamber's annual general meeting earlier this week.

Mr Cliffe said he aimed to improve the way the chamber communicates with people in the town to get a better idea of the issues they face.

"These are enormous boots to fill and the prints are all over town," he said.

"Everyone respects the way that Mike has fought the corner for businesses. I am intimidated by the reputation he has established to fight the business corner; the energy he has put into it has been absolutely outstanding."

The outgoing chairman said there were a number of issues that would need the group's attention over the coming months, including the saga over the heliport and the harbour development scheme.

Following the appointment, Mr Waters was voted in as president of the chamber, with Steven Richford taking over the position of vice-chairman.