Wiltshire advice team boss from Bradford on Avon takes a back seat (From Wiltshire Times)

Wiltshire advice team boss from Bradford on Avon takes a back seat

12:00pm Wednesday 22nd February 2012 in News By Kirsty Callaghan

The largest relationship counselling organisation based in Wiltshire is saying goodbye to their chairman after 13 years.

Bob Worlidge, 78, of Bradford on Avon, is stepping down after 13 years as chairman of Relate Mid Wiltshire.

He said: “It was time for a change. You shouldn’t be in that position for too long, so that the trust doesn’t get too bogged down.”

His replacement, Lesley Breithwaite, 64, from Frome, has been on the board of trustees for a year and is thrilled to be taking on the position.

She said: “It is a huge privilege. Bob will be a hard act to follow as he has grown the organisation a lot.”

Mr Worlidge said: “I am sad to leave, as I have thoroughly enjoyed it.

“They have a first class team of people working at Relate, and the success is hugely due to the great leadership of Amanda, who is managing them.”

Relate Mid Wiltshire found themselves putting redundancy letters out in 2003 after they were unable to find funding. Virgin Mobile saved them from closure by donating money and allowing the charity to continue.

Mr Worlidge said: “We have funding now from a long list of people, from Wiltshire Council to fundraising events and various donations.”

Both Mr Worlidge and Mrs Breithwaite agree that the most important thing is ensuring the promotion and deliverance of the service to those in need. Mrs Breithwaite said: “What we are trying to do is consolidate and grow.

“Relate isn’t just about marriage guidance.

“People here manage all sorts of relationships, including going into schools and working with children and young people.”

Last year Relate saw more than 1,000 children in Wiltshire and 800 couples.