Pendle Leisure Trust has announced a new chief executive.

Simon Gwynne will take over the role from Alison Goode, who has held the job for the past eight and a half years, who is retiring.

Mr Gwynne has worked in the leisure industry for more than 29 years.

He said: "I am extremely excited to have this opportunity as the chief executive of Pendle Leisure Trust.

"I am looking forward to working with our partners Pendle Borough Council in helping our communities to be healthy and active across our sites in Pendle.

"Over 29 years of working within the industry through a wide range of roles has helped me appreciate the various levels and impact of interactions with customers within Trusts.

"These roles have ranged from work experience, to swimming teaching, to being a general manager for multiple sites, and working in a variety of regions from Herefordshire to Wiltshire to Bridgend."

Mr Gwynne joins Pendle after being the partnership manager for Halo Leisure in Bridgend, South Wales, for the past nine years.

He said: "The energy uplifts and cost of living crisis have created a wide series of challenges for us all and working collaboratively within the region to support the corporate objectives for the council and with our local health partners in tackling health inequalities is a key focus for the role over the next few years."

The departing Ms Goode said: "The last eight and a half years as chief executive of Pendle Leisure Trust have been an absolute privilege.

"My decision to take early retirement is one that I have not taken lightly.

"I love Pendle Leisure Trust, my job and the people I work with but after 40 years in local government, the time has come to enjoy some 'me' time."

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: "I’m delighted to welcome Simon to Pendle Leisure Trust.

"A big thank you to Alison for all of your hard work and commitment over the years."