Stuart Birkett of Berwick has been named the new Vice Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland.

He will aid Dr Caroline Pryer, the current Lord-Lieutenant and the King's representative for the county.

Mr Birkett, an active volunteer for a number of organisations, has lived in Berwick-upon-Tweed for 35 years after growing up near Alnwick.

He is a former RNLI crewmember, non-executive director and charity trustee, and was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2010.

His career has seen him go from construction, to media, to running his own management consultancy business.

Mr Birkett said: "I am deeply honoured by this appointment and very much look forward to doing all I can to support the Lord Lieutenant in her work across the county.

“I appreciate the wonderful vitality of the residents of Northumberland and look forward to celebrating their achievements in the years to come."

Dr Pryer said: "I am greatly looking forward to working with Stuart whose passion for Northumberland and its communities is evident from his extensive and varied work spanning many years."

The Lord Lieutenant, supported by Vice and Deputy Lieutenants, represents the King, covers royal visits, supports regional initiatives, and recognises community contributions.