THE chief executive of a charity that works with thousands of elderly people each year has announced his retirement after almost a quarter of a century in the field.

Paul Cann, said it was a "privilege" to work for Age UK in Abingdon over the past 16 years but would like to spend more time with his family.

He said: "I will step down as chief executive of Age UK Oxfordshire and Action for Carers Oxfordshire from November, in order to do freelance work, be there for my family and – to adapt a well-worn phrase – spend more time with my vocal cords.

"I am grateful to so many caring colleagues who have gone the extra mile so often so that older people and carers may live their lives as they wish to, in the sunlight rather than the shadows to which they are too often confined."

Age UK says it will be looking to fill the role by Christmas – a time in which many elderly residents are without love or support.

Chairman of the board of trustees for Age UK, Davina Logan, said: "It is with mixed feelings that we accepted Paul Cann’s resignation.

"Sadness that Paul has decided that it is time for him to move on and explore new challenges; huge gratitude for the tireless commitment, passion and vision he brought to the charity, making a difference to the lives of older people and carers; and finally, tremendous pride in his and the charity’s achievements, successes and excellent local and national reputation."