Two leading members of an organisation relaunched to boost a struggling high street have resigned due to 'unbelievable apathy'.

Chairwoman Rachel Root and treasurer Michele Redgrave say they have seen interest in the Wanstead Business Partnership slowly wane over the last eight months.

Mrs Redgrave, who owns Images in Frames in High Street, said: "The apathy was unbelievable.

"We have to have a bit more involvement from everyone – there are around 250 businesses in Wanstead, but only four other business owners came to the last meeting.

"I will always support what the partnership does, but I am stepping down and it is a shame it has come to this."

Mrs Root, who runs the Orange Tree in High Street, said: "My decision to step down as chair is not one I have taken lightly.

"I have great enthusiasm for the high street and I am more than happy to help out, but I have to put my own business first.

"The partnership needs someone with more time than I have and someone with big ideas. I just can’t be the only one, along with Michele, doing anything."

The partnership devised a poster and leaflet campaign to encourage shoppers to spend money in the area in the run up to Christmas.

However, traders said although the campaign raised awareness, there was not a significant upturn in sales.

Mrs Redgrave and Mrs Root will stay in position until replacements can be found.

Anyone interested can email Mrs Root at shop@orangetreedirect.co.uk.