The search is on for a successor to Maurice Charrett, who has taken on responsibility for the historic Weeke Pond for the last 17 years.
The pond has been the subject of major renovation work over recent months, and Maurice, led the project which brought in various organisations including the city council, Winchester City Residents Association and the Environment Agency.
Maurice said: "I took on responsibility for the Pond in 1995 for 1 year! That was seventeen years ago and I decided in 2007 to give up the role but was not prepared to abandon it in such a poor state.
"Another five years have passed without progress because the Local Authorities had no money available and gave minimal practical support. Since Feb. 2011 however, the City Council has been extremely helpful in carrying out many essential tasks.
"A number of things remain to be done and although I will see these outstanding tasks completed, I have decided that 30th April 2012 will be the date from which I will cease to be Chairman and Organiser of Weeke Pond Improvement Scheme.
"The Pond urgently needs somebody to take over my management role and the recruitment of new volunteers. Unless a volunteer comes forward, Weeke Pond will become neglected and once again be a dumping ground for rubbish as it was in 1995. I will help whoever takes over by passing on my experiences of the last seventeen years and assisting in any way possible by remaining a volunteer."
Steve Brine added: "Maurice is well known by so many across the city, and after 17 years leading the charge it is quite understandable that he is looking to pass the baton on. We are specifically looking for someone who lives in the Weeke area, and I would encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch.
"I would also like to put on record my deep admiration for the work Maurice has done, and continues to do, for us all across the city. He is a real credit to our city and we should all be extremely proud of him."
More information...
If you are interested in taking over, please contact Hampshire County Council, or simply email steve.brine.mp@parliament.uk.