Long-established Twickenham trader Len Smith has taken over as supremo of the group designed to revitalise the town centre.

He is the new chairman of the management committee for the `Think Twickenham' initiative.

Mr Smith, who owns a school and sport outfitters on Heath Road, succeeds Patricia Schooling who has chaired the `Think Twickenham' steering group since its launch in 1996.

Councillor Gina MacKinney, deputy leader of Richmond Council, paid tribute to all Patricia's hard work over the past two years.

She said: "I would like to thank Patricia for her immense dedication to the Twickenham town centre project.

"She has provided a sound foundation for it and involved traders who, in partnership with the council and others, will pursue the action plan and bring much-needed vitality back to Twickenham."

Len Smith takes over at a critical time with new town centre manager Janet Knox appointed less than two months ago and the future of the flagship riverside development hanging in the balance.

These plans are crucial to successful regeneration of the town but consultants who have just reported back to Richmond Council have doubts about how viable a 450-seater arts auditorium and shop and office units will be.

A decision on developing the former swimming pool site will be taken by councillors in September.

Since `Think Twickenham' was launched two years ago, much positive work has been done: an annual festival, appointment of a town centre manager and major retailers returning to the town.

New town centre manager Janet Knox is keen to launch a town newsletter and kickstart special Christmas promotions to bring people back to Twickenham.

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