Palma.Gay Niblett said yesterday that he had intended to stand down at the AGM earlier this year, but his successor had decided to spend less time on the island so he held on to the post until yesterday when it was announced that Ivan Lythgoe will be taking over as acting chairman until the next AGM in April.
Niblett explained that after three years, he feels that he has taken the branch as far as he can and that he really no longer has the time to dedicate sufficient attention to being Chairman of the branch. I feel I've served my time, reached my sell by date. I have more and more travelling to do and I just can't give the job the attention it deserves anymore. I think that Ivan will get more response from the community than I did in drumming up members etc., he's more hands on and gets out and about more than I do. But, over the past three years, we've had some great events and very good speakers including Lord Hurd and Tobias Ellwood MP. I started the political forum which I wanted to become a regular feature but it became harder and harder in getting people involved and I no longer have the time to get around everyone and talk to them, Niblett told the Bulletin yesterday.
In the official letter put out by the Majorcan branch of Conservatives Abroad, Ivan Lythgoe writes; I would like to take the opportunity to advise you that I have taken on the position of Acting Chairman of the Majorca Branch of The Conservatives Abroad , on a temporary basis. You will be aware by now that Gay Niblett has resigned from his position as Chairman, and I am sure you would like me to thank him on your behalf for all his hard work over the last three years. Of course Gay will continue as a member of the Branch. For your information we intend to hold an AGM on Wednesday 10th April, Venue and times to be advised, to discuss how the Branch will move forward. We need to form a new committee and your help, views and support is needed.