BUSINESSMAN Dr Peter Cook will step down as chairman of Halton Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise next month.

Dr Cook, 77, will continue to serve on the Chamber board but at the AGM on Tuesday 11 December, he will pass on the chair’s reins to a new board director after eight years to lead Halton’s business community into the post-Brexit world.

A former Cheshire Deputy Lieutenant, he has enjoyed a long and distinguished career as an engineer and business innovator, and continues to help firms and individuals flourish through his Plegmund Management Consultancy and other activities.

After graduating in chemical engineering from University College London, Dr Cook spent nearly 36 years working for ICI, including the design and commissioning teams of the company’s first petrochemical vinyl chloride monomer plant in the UK.

He said: “I feel now is the right time to step down from leading the chamber and let a younger person with fresh ideas continue its success into the future. I’ve enjoyed my time as chairman and the support received from everyone that has helped make Halton one of the most vibrant and successful chambers in the region.”

Rachael Owen, Halton Chamber chief executive, said Dr Cook had been a great ambassador for business and a towering force for good within Halton.

She added: “Peter has made a significant contribution to the development of the Chamber, providing exceptional business knowledge and acumen, combined with endless enthusiasm.

“During his time as chair, Peter has coached and mentored a range of businesses, including social enterprises and start-ups, providing valuable insight and practical solutions for all. He has helped to oversee the growth and popularity of the Halton Business Awards, now in its 10th year, initiated a new science and manufacturing network and always gives generously of his time, skills and expertise.”

All business men and women are invited to join Halton Chamber on Tuesday, December 11 at 11.30am, at The Heath Business Park Conference Centre.

Tickets are £10 for members, £15 for non-members from haltonchamber.co.uk or phone 0333 358 3480.