THE president of a long-running musical group has stepped down after 10 years at the helm.

Ray Booth was presented with a card and gifts by fellow members of the Clevedon Gilbert and Sullivan Society in recognition of his work for the group, which puts on regular productions in the town.

The 89-year-old from Walton-in-Gordano has now become a friend of the society.

A spokesman for the group said: “Ray was a brilliant president – very hands-on – and has done sterling service for many years welcoming dignitaries, entertaining audiences with his cheeky-chappy monologues, building props, painting scenery, liaising with advertisers, promoting the society and being the elder statesman of our committee.

“He will be a very hard act to follow.”