A NEW man has been appointed to oversee the management of the region’s public forests.

James Simpson will take the reins as forest management director for the North of England district from November.

The appointment was made by the Forestry Commission, which is responsible for public forests.

Mr Simpson’s portfolio will include the likes of Kielder Forest, in Northumberland, Grizedale and Whinlatter, in the Lake District, and Hamsterley, County Durham’s largest forest.

He has worked for the Forestry Commission before in various roles and replaces Graham Gill who is leaving the post.

Mr Simpson said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a great team and contribute to a bright future for England’s public forest estate.”