The chairman of one of Gloucestershire's leading engineering groups has announced he is to retire.

Bill Whiteley will step down from the board at Cheltenham-based Spirax-Sarco Engineering after the annual general meeting on May 15.

Jamie Pike, the current senior independent director is expected to take over as chairman.

Spirax-Sarco specialises in the control and efficient use of steam, and in peristaltic pumping and associated fluid path technologies.

The world-beating steam management technology it produces is used in a variety of industrial processes from food to health care. Spirax-Sarco has its headquarters in Cheltenham where it employs 1,000 people and 5,900 worldwide.

After today's announcement of the board succession changes, Mr Whiteley said: ""It has been a pleasure to serve the shareholders and the Company for 16 years and, over this time, to see the group make significant progress.

"Everyone at Spirax-Sarco has my best wishes for the future and I am confident that the company will continue to go from strength to strength.

Jamie's broad industrial engineering and international business experience will benefit the further development of the group. His skills and experience place him in an ideal position to act as our chairman."

Nicholas Anderson, group chief executive, said: "On behalf of our shareholders the board acknowledges with gratitude Bill's significant contribution to the group's growth and prosperity over the last 16 years.

In his role as chairman, Bill's leadership has been vital in guiding the business through significant changes and challenges, earning him the highest respect from shareholders, the board and colleagues."

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