AFTER 17 "memorable" years at the helm of one of the Lake District's most visited and historic parishes, Dr Chris Lane has decided to retire.

The former outdoor pursuits instructor and geologist followed in the footsteps of storyteller Beatrix Potter's husband, solicitor William Heelis, as chairman of Claife Parish Council. Home to fewer than 1,000 people, the parish includes Hill Top farm and Wray Castle, and attracts a million visitors each year.

In his rich and varied career, Dr Lane founded Threlkeld Mining Museum, helped to excavate Ambleside's Roman fort, and spent 20 years as sports manager of Grasmere Sports. He was instrumental in moving the event to a Sunday, instead of Thursday, to revive flagging visitor numbers, and he steered it through the years of foot-and-mouth disease.

He was headmaster at Cedar House School in Kirkby Lonsdale; taught theatre at the Lakes School, Troutbeck Bridge; and kept three antiques shops in Ambleside.

"In some ways it's a relief but in other ways it's sad," said Dr Lane on saying farewell to the parish council.

"We've got six grandchildren, and I'm involved with trying to do a BBC TV series on mines and the history of the Lake District, and I thought maybe I should be selfish and give up - but I don't think you ever retire."

Mr Lane recalled"memorable times" such as "constant battles" over the running of the Windermere ferry; and the "huge pressure of people wanting to build houses that aren't in keeping with vernacular architecture".

"Real successes" had included around eight homes for locals being built. "That's the other pressure," said the father of two daughters, Hannah and Sophie. "Young people can't stay. they just can't afford to buy anything. It's an issue."

Dr Lane described the Grasmere Sports years as "glorious", saying it was a privilege to serve on a committee of "real gentlemen", such as Lord Lowther, and to "turn around" the flagging fixture. "It's now doing very well. It's nice to be able to think I did that with support of my wife, Liz." The couple have been married for nearly 50 years.

In a warm tribute, Claife residents said they were sorry to lose Dr Lane's "calm and confident leadership". They said he was "much respected" and had made "an enormous contribution" locally.