ENTREPRENEUR James Lambert will retire as non-executive chairman of R&R Ice Cream, it has been confirmed.

After a life-long commitment to the North Yorkshire company he co-founded in 1987, Mr Lambert intends to pursue other interests.

His retirement follows a period of transition which saw him step down from his role as chief executive last year while retaining the role of chairman.

He will remain a significant shareholder of the Leeming Bar, North Yorkshire-based company.

Under his leadership R&R has become the second largest take-home ice cream manufacturer in Europe.