A NORTH-EAST regeneration body has named its new chairman.

Andrew Hodgson has taken on the role at the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (NElep).

Mr Hodgson, chief executive of Tyneside-based subsea engineer Soil Machine Dynamics Limited, succeeds Paul Woolston, who has stood down after five years at the helm.

Mr Hodgson said: “It is a privilege to have the opportunity as the new chairman to work with the public and private sectors to help grow the regional economy.

“The foundations are in place for this growth to continue thanks to the work of Paul Woolston and the team at NElep in securing £1.5bn in funding to fuel new business growth and job creation.

“With all the opportunities that the devolution of powers from central Government will present the North-East economy, we face a once in a generation opportunity to really transform our region.

"We must also ensure that the current momentum is not lost as we establish what devolution means to us.

“I’ve spent my career growing world class businesses both here in the North-East and internationally.

"I will use my knowledge and that of the NElep board to create more and better jobs.

"We will make investments into the regional economy that will stimulate growth and allow us to seize these new opportunities.”

North-East business leaders have given their reaction to Mr Hodgson's appointment.

James Ramsbotham, North East Chamber of Commerce chief executive, said: “Andrew is a world-class business leader and his appointment as chairman will ensure that business and its priorities are at the very heart of NElep#'s activities.”

Sarah Glendinning, CBI regional director, said: "Andrew’s appointment is excellent news for the region at a time when strong leadership and proven business acumen are needed to ensure we maximise the opportunities devolution presents us.”

Councillor Simon Henig, chairman of the North East Combined Authority and leader of Durham County Council, added: “Paul Woolston has created a strong foundation for the North-East economy to grow and I wholeheartedly support Andrew’s appointment to lead NElep through the next phase.

"He has a deep understanding of NElep from his time as vice-chairman and is ideally placed to take the organisation forward.”