THE former Governor of Hong Kong and a Geordie TV presenter have taken over as a charity's new patrons.

St Cuthbert's Care, the region's largest social care charity announced the Right Honourable Chris Patten and Declan Donnelly, of Ant and Dec fame, as its patrons yesterday. They take over the reins from the late Cardinal Basil Hume.

Mr Patten, who is now a European Commissioner, is also chancellor of Newcastle University and visits the city several times a year.

Dec, who is from Newcastle and shot to fame alongside his partner in Byker Grove, returns on a regular basis.

He said: "I am keen to support the valuable work that St Cuthbert's Care is doing."

Austin Donohoe, director of St Cuthbert's Care, said: "We are delighted to bring on board two high-profile patrons who we feel will appeal to a broad cross section of the community and to supporters of all ages. Through their involvement and support, we will be able to spread the message of our work."