Donna made her announcement to chamber members on Tuesday in an impassioned email.

She said that it was with regret that she has decided not to stand for the position this year and is unable to attend the AGM meeting today.

"Recent events have made me see that my contribution is not valued by some members of the business community," she said.

"Any chamber of commerce is only strong because of its members and in the last few years, numbers to the meetings have decreased and the tasks of the small executive have increased.

"Many people say they do not get anything out of being a member, and I agree there should be some benefits from membership, but I joined this group to give back to the community and share my skills and there are so many of you with excellent skills that would be invaluable to our chamber."

Secretary of the chamber, Christine Calabria passed on the message to chamber members on behalf of Donna.

"I feel we are losing one of the most valuable members in our business community.

"Her invaluable knowledge and commitment to improving, marketing and promoting our town will be a huge loss to Wingham." Christine said.

"I understand her current wishes but I am hoping in the future she will return to WCC with a renewed zeal."