A NEWLY retired chief executive has been given a new role helping lead a housing group.

George Garlick, who left Durham County Council at the end of last week (Friday), was today (Monday) named as chair of the board of directors at Tees Valley-based Thirteen Group.

As such, the 60-year-old, from Norton, Teesside, will help shape the future of Erimus Housing, Housing Hartlepool, Tees Valley Housing, Tristar Homes and Thirteen Care and Support.

He succeeds Mike Clark, who is stepping down.

Mr Garlick said: “The Tees Valley is where my heart is and I’m really pleased to be contributing to the largest social landlord group in the area.

“It’s a really interesting and challenging time for the housing sector and social housing in particular.”

Mr Garlick was previously chief executive of Stockton Borough Council. He is married with a 12-year-old son and in retirement hopes to spend more time watching his son play sport.

Alison Thain, chief executive of Thirteen said: “We are thrilled to welcome such a well-respected and experienced figure in the region to head up the board at Thirteen.”