POPULAR Wycombe District Council chairman David Cox was honoured by more than 340 people at his leaving reception last week.

Lord Lieutenant Sir Nigel Hobbs, High Sheriff Alexander Shepard, MPs and representatives from local organisations attended the evening dinner at The Town Hall on April 5.

The Chiltern Camerata Orchestra provided the perfect backdrop for guests who enjoyed Councillor Cox's speech.

He described the 'wealth of activity, care, concern and self sacrifice' in the town and drew on his own personal theme of encouraging the 'feel good factor' in the area, which saw him handing out smiling badges to courteous businesses during his year as chairman.

Cllr Cox was born at the Shrubbery on Amersham Hill, attended the Royal Grammar School, and has taught in schools throughout the district.

He said: "When I became chairman of the council, I really thought I knew the district but I quickly realised how wrong I was. I discovered so many heart-warming activities and we should all be proud to live in this part of Buckinghamshire."

After thanking all businesses and organisations in the area he singled out some for their community-mindedness.

He said: "Charities like Fixiquip run by Ernie Maynard and the Wycombe Rape Crisis Centre, fronted by Bexley Penhaligon are often overlooked and do some brilliant work."

He finished his speech by thanking his wife for being his tower of strength and her ongoing support.

Cllr Cox will officially leave the chairmanship on May 14 and will be succeeded by Councillor Bill Jennings.