A new chairman has been appointed for Cockermouth Chamber of Trade.

Andrew Marshall owns Strolling4Shoes on Main Street and also lives in the town. His appointment was agreed at the chamber’s AGM on Tuesday.

Mr Marshall is already an active member of Cockermouth’s business community – organising the Christmas hamper raffle with a prize worth more than £1,500, leading the Spirit of Christmas late night shopping events, and creating leaflet drops to thousands of homes in the area encouraging residents to shop local.

He’s also joined forces with other businesses to advertise his shop and the town in television and magazine adverts.

Mr Marshall said: “These events really seemed to get the traders talking and, from my own experience and the word on the street, they gave the town good local publicity plus an important feel good factor.

“I wanted to keep that momentum going, which is why I agreed to take on the role of chairman.

“I feel strongly that we need to represent the interests of Cockermouth businesses from all sectors of industry - from sole traders to the biggest of employers.

“The chamber has strong relationships with local government and other institutions and we will lobby them on the issues which affect the business community.

“I also want to see business-to-business benefits – that could be buying in bulk to get savings on everything from insurance and credit card machines, to till rolls and carrier bags.”

Mr Marshall is co-opting chamber officers around the town to take on specific areas of responsibility.

He said: “Anybody who knows me will know I have a pet hate for negativity - I only do positives. I’d love to hear from anyone with good ideas about how we can keep Cockermouth as a great place to eat, drink, shop and explore, for locals and visitors alike.”

Mr Marshall and his wife, Sue, moved to the area in 1997 with their four sons. His family has been in the shoe trade since 1904.

He can be contacted at andrew@strolling4shoes.co.uk