A NOT-for-profit company which aims to increase the appeal of Hereford as a leisure and shopping destination has selected a new chairperson.

John Jones from Philip Morris & Son has been chairman of Hereford Business Improvement District (BID) since it started in 2015.

But he has now decided to step down and Ali Rogers has now taken on the role.

Ali has owned, managed and run several local companies, setting up her first business in 1986, and has brought up her family in Hereford.

In recent years, Ali has been providing consultancy services as well as maintaining her interest in Hereford by continuing to open and develop businesses throughout the city.

She said: "I am delighted to be involved in Hereford BID. I have been an active board member since joining in 2017 and have always taken a keen interest in BID activities and achievements.

"The board, BID team and I share a vision for the ongoing growth and potential of Hereford city. We believe in promoting the Hereford Experience, supporting both local independent businesses, and sustaining key multiple retail outlets."

She thanked John for the work he has carried out over the last three years.

He said: “I’d like to congratulate Ali on her election as the new BID chair. She brings a fantastic blend of business experience, local knowledge and fresh ideas to the team, making her the ideal choice to take the work the BID does to the next level."