A new chief executive has been appointed to lead landscape charity Friends of the Lake District.
Colin Walker, of Langwathby, near Penrith, is joining the charity from the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, where he has been responsible for their transport policy.
He was previously the lead cycling delivery manager at British Cycling and has over 20 years’ experience working in policy and campaigning at several organisations, including Save the Children, Mind and War Child UK.
He takes over from previous chief executive Michael Hill, who retired at the end of last month.
Colin said: “Having spent my entire life enjoying and benefitting from everything that Cumbria has to offer, I am delighted to have the opportunity to give something back.
“I cannot wait to get started – working to ensure that the county’s beautiful and world-renowned landscapes are protected and enhanced for the benefit of those that live and visit here today, and for generations to come.
“The sheer popularity of our county inevitably gives rise to challenges, and we will continue to campaign and fight for measures that will help mitigate these, for the benefit of our beautiful fells and lakes, those that come to enjoy them, and the communities that live here.”
Malcolm Boswell, chair of trustees for Friends of the Lake District, said: “We’re pleased to welcome Colin to Friends of the Lake District.
“Colin’s experience in campaigning and influencing partners will ensure that we continue to protect and enhance the Cumbrian landscape for the benefit of the environment, those who live here and those who come to enjoy the only national park in the UK designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.”
Colin is expected to take up the role of CEO later in the summer.
