CHRISTCHURCH Parish Council is losing its chairman just weeks after he took over the role. Councillor John Sparrow is resigning from the council and April's annual meeting will be his final one. He has been a councillor for more than 15 years. He took ove

CHRISTCHURCH Parish Council is losing its chairman just weeks after he took over the role.Councillor John Sparrow is resigning from the council and April's annual meeting will be his final one. He has been a councillor for more than 15 years.He took over as chairman last month following the retirement of Councillor Nigel Russell, chairman since 1995.Councillor Alison Small is also stepping down as a councillor and the two vacancies are being advertised.Councillor Sparrow says he simply wants a rest from council work after having to help deal with several major problems in the village over recent years.He said: "I have been on the council for several years and I just thought I would like a rest. I feel it is time to make way for new blood."We have had several problems including the Hazelmere Homes development in the village, and we have had quite a lot to do with the new village hall plans. "I have certainly enjoyed my time as a councillor."In January a "homes for hall" plan was vetoed by John Prescott. The decision to overturn permission granted by Fenland District Council sent shock waves through the village.The proposal would have seen nine luxury homes built in the green belt in return for £30,000 towards a new village hall. The parish council said the decision was a terrible loss to the village.Cllr Sparrow, 60, says he is proud of a number of accomplishments during his time as a councillor including the taking over and running of the playing field and pavilion, the provision of play areas and allotments.Although he is resigning as a councillor, he will remain heavily involved in village life through the village hall committee, the bowls club and as a trustee of some land which belongs to the village.