Hexham Community Partnership (HCP) has announced the appointment of a new manager, Deborah Anderson, as well as two new board members.

Ms Anderson, a Hexham native, previously held roles as the head of communications for Tyne & Wear Archives and Museums, and managing director of WIN, a regional business network for women entrepreneurs.

Ms Anderson said: "These are exciting times to be joining Hexham Community Partnership, collaborating with our partners to build a more vibrant, inclusive and enterprising market town for our residents, businesses and visitors.

"My immediate focus is on working with our board to set the path for a business that will harness the potential for Hexham, building on strong foundations and exploring new ideas and opportunities.

"I’m proud to know that HCP established the West Northumberland Food Bank, runs the Number 28 Community House and saved the Forum Cinema for the community.”

In addition to Ms Anderson, HCP has also added Heather Cook and Sarah Robinson-Gay, two Hexham independent retailers, to the board of directors.

Ms Cook, former National Trust employee, currently owns Green Bee, a creative hub and gift shop.

Ms Robinson-Gay operates RG Cabinetmakers and manages several holiday lets.

Partnership chair Neil Wilkinson said: "We’re excited to have welcomed Deborah as manager and to have Heather and Sarah on the board.

"Together, they bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the development trust and we are excited to be working with them."