CARER Support Wiltshire, the charity the Gazette and Herald are backing this year, have chosen a new leader. Judy Walker will succeed Catharine Hurford as Chief Executive with effect from November 1.

Judy Walker has a strong background in the voluntary sector, having worked extensively in senior strategic roles in national and regional charities including Age Concern (Hampshire), Stroke Association and Citizens Advice.

In a statement on behalf of the board of the Semington-based charity, chairman Laraine Marriott said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome someone of Judy’s experience and ability to Carer Support Wiltshire and are looking forward to working with her to ensure that our organisation continues to make a positive difference to the lives of carers.

"The Board is confident that it has found the right person to lead our committed team of staff and volunteers in the next stage of Carer Support Wiltshire’s development.”

Judy Walker said she was delighted to be joining Carer Support Wiltshire, adding: “I am looking forward to meeting and working with staff, volunteers and trustees, and to build on the solid base which Catharine has left behind.

"I am also very keen to meet carers who use our services, to learn more about what they value from Carer Support Wiltshire, along with colleagues from Wiltshire Council and the Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group.”