BUILDING on the strong relationships already forged with the business community is the focus of Paul Burrough, who took over this week as president of Salisbury and District Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Mr Burrough, owner of signs and graphics company Signarama at Churchfields Industrial Estate, takes over from Melanie Murrell who has stepped down.

He will be supported by Eliot Jones, owner of Greenthumb in Salisbury.

Mr Burrough said: “Melanie remains on the chamber's board of directors and has left the chamber in excellent shape, thanks to the work she has carried out with such enthusiasm.

“I look forward to continuing with this work and building on the strong relationships that she has forged within the local business community.”

• Chamber executive officer Loretta Lupi-Lawrence left the chamber yesterday to concentrate on her business, Lupilicious, after five years of service.

Mr Burrough said: “We are very sad that Loretta is leaving, but wish her good luck with her business venture.”