Dave Christer, 50, of Hebburn, has been appointed head of business support within local environmental services, at Gateshead Council, taking with him, more than 30 years of experience with the council.

Mr Christer joined Gateshead Council in the 1970s and previously worked in the education and public works departments before the local environmental services group was created.

Starting his career at Gateshead as a clerk, Mr Christer has worked his way up the chain of command, holding a number of management positions in business support before taking on his latest role.

Under his new title, Mr Christer will oversee a diverse range of services, including the council's Neighbourhood Warden service, which comprises neighbourhood patrol and response, security and property protection, CCTV and public space surveillance and operational parking enforcement.

He will also act as head of all the group's financial, training and health and safety support services.

Born and brought up in North East England, he said: "My service is capable of making a real difference to improving the quality of life for the people of Gateshead as well as supporting the work of the local environmental services group.

"I am very much looking forward to helping the council realise its vision for the Borough of Gateshead."