THERE will be a change at the top of the the Wear Valley Community Network next month.

Victor Cadaxa will succeed David Craggs as co-ordinator of the group.

Mr Craggs is retiring four years after setting up the network to increase community and voluntary sector involvement in the Local Strategic Partnership.

He was previously head of personnel at Wear Valley District Council.

A spokesman for volunteer agency 2D said: "The network has grown into an important community voice in Wear Valley, achieving its aims to provide the general public with an opportunity to influence the delivery of public services.

"The fact that the network has progressed well and has achieved a good reputation is due in no small part to David's efforts and enthusiasm."

American-born Mr Cadaxa, who lived in Brazil as a child, is shadowing Mr Craggs before taking over in March.

He spent 30 years with the Workers Education Association and was recently its County Durham organiser.

He said: "It will be a hard act to follow but I'm looking forward to taking on the challenge of continuing David's excellent work."

The network is based in 2D's offices in Crook Business Centre.

Telephone (01388) 762220 for more information.