The future of Maldon Chamber of Trade and Commerce could hang in the balance unless new committee members are found.

Chairman Chris Tibballs is urging existing members to think about filling the three top spaces which are currently vacant or face the risk of losing the chamber altogether.

In a letter inviting the 110 members to the annual Mr Tibballs warns they may have to consider the future of the organisation if the spaces are not filled. He is willing to spend a third and final year as chairman if elected but nominations for vice-chairman, treasurer and membership officer are still needed.

Mr Tibballs said: "The last thing we want is stopping the chamber of trade but it is something we would be forced to consider if these positions are not filled.

"But I am confident that our members will come forward at the meeting. We must have a good attendance in view of the importance of the decisions to be made."

Last year less than 20 people turned up at the annual meeting. This year's meeting will be at the Town Hall in Market Hill at 8pm on on Monday, June 26.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.