PAUL Chandler has blamed “parish pump politics” for being ousted as chairman of the Association of Independent Tour Operators after two years.
He has been replaced by vice-chairman and Osprey Holidays managing director John Bennett. Chandler, who has been re-elected onto the Council, described the vote as disappointing. “I did ask why but didn’t really get any answers,” he said. “There have been mutterings in recent times which I compare to parish pump politics.”
It is thought that Chandler’s style – which included a desire to open up membership – was not to everyone’s liking.
Bennett said there was no question of any split within AITO. “I have been vice-chairman for several years and was going to stand down,” he said. “Colleagues said I deserved the chance. It seemed to be the case that I was always the bridesmaid and never the bride.”