MALMESBURY town clerk and financial officer Jeff Penfold will be stepping down from his post and the hunt is already on for a worthy successor.

Mr Penfold formally advised Malmesbury town council of his intention to retire on March 31 next year.

"It was a decision I didn't take lightly, but I decided it was time to hang up my wig," he said.

Over the years, Mr Penfold has overseen many changes, not least the transfer of ownership of the Town Hall to the Town Council ten years ago and the subsequent refurbishment of the building.

Coun Wayne Jones, chair of the policy and resources committee, said “We are very grateful to the town clerk for his service to the Town Council and to the wider Malmesbury community.

"Without his commitment, support and direction we would not have been able to make many of the improvements that people see, and take for granted, in the town today.

"We could not have asked for a town clerk more passionate about our town, and that has made our job as town councillors a lot easier."

The Mayor of Malmesbury Coun Fran Vandelli said: "Speaking on behalf of the whole council, we are really grateful for his time and effort.

"Speaking personally, his professional experience, his advice and support have been absolutely invaluable.

"I was lucky to have his support during my time as a new mayor."

Coun Catherine Doody said: "Over the years he has set us in the right direction.

"We look forward to finding a successor - it's good to have some new eyes on a situation."

The announcement was made at a recent meeting of the town council, when Coun Vandelli thanked Mr Penfold for his service and support.

The post was advertised on the town council website on Friday, to start in April 2019 and paying a salary of £35,934 - £38,813, with a closing date for applications of January 7.