A GROUP supporting the county's business community has appointed a new president.

Stuart Speight takes on the role at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce following Jim McBride's decision to step down.

Mr McBride had been president for two years, helping the group win the Chamber of the Year award last year.

His successor, who is a director of IE Developments on King's Acre Road in Hereford, says he wants to lift the Chamber's profile.

"Having a hands on approach with the local business community, being a director of a local business myself, gives me the insights to know what our members need," he said.

"Personally, I would like to see Herefordshire playing a greater role in the chamber, to lift its profile and see more local events for each sector.

"I know I share this goal with Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mike Ashton."

Mr McBride said every organisation needs change to move forward.

"The principle of changing presidents every two years is correct as we will each bring our own personality to the job," he said.

"Stuart has a wealth of experience in the construction world especially associated with eco projects.

"Going forward the message is to never let up on the accelerator pedal."