New Alresford Town Trust (NATT) has announced that longstanding trustee, Robin Atkins, is retiring this month.

He became a trustee in 2005, and in his 19 years has served long periods as both chairman and treasurer.   His arrival coincided with a crisis at NATT when five of the trustees resigned, leaving the organisation in disarray. With others, he was able to get control of the situation and ensured NATT survived.

His term as a trustee has seen major developments such as saving and restoring the Eel House, creating the Alresford Museum, and expanding the community minibus service. 

As a qualified accountant, he has focused on ensuring the charity’s finances are robust, that its assets are protected, and that it is well placed to survive another 135 years.

Before joining the trust he served on Alresford Town Council for many years.

Current NATT chair Vanessa Andrews said: "The Trust thanks Robin for his commitment to NATT.  He has always done what he believes to be in the interests of NATT,  and has worked very hard over many years.  It’s not an exaggeration to say that the trust would quite likely have folded some years ago, without his tireless efforts.  We wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement".

Robin said: "I have been happy to serve the community, and believe that NATT has been the best place to achieve this.  I appreciate that new blood is required and wish the trust every good fortune in the future".

New Alresford Town Trust is a charity, created in 1890.  It owns and maintains The Avenue; manages the Broad Street markets and fairs; owns and operates the museum and historic Eel House; runs the Community Minibus; and manages funds to provide support to those suffering hardship in the town.

NATT currently has vacancies for two trustees – contact clerk@towntrust.org.uk for more information.