A CHARITY that helps young people achieve their potential through leadership training has announced its new CEO.

HOBY UK, which was founded by former Boteler headteacher John Sharples, has appointed Rosemary Panting as its new CEO after a thorough interview and vetting process.

The charity, which was founded in 2006 and is based on Sankey Street in Warrington town centre, also teaches young people about volunteerism and guides them into volunteering roles.

Rosemary has been involved with the charity since 2014 and has used her accountancy skills to help with finances and recruitment.

She said: "I am excited to be taking on the role of CEO of HOBY UK and I am looking forward to working with all our stakeholders in continuing the success and effective leadership shown by John Sharples, our previous CEO.

"Each year I can witness our impact on students and this drives me on to reach out to more and more schools and young people, to enable them to share in the HOBY UK experience."

Stuart Jamieson, HOBY UK's chairman of trustees, said: "Rosemary is a shining example of the mission and values of HOBY UK.

"She has dedicated her own life to leadership, service, and innovation.

"She succeeds John Sharples as CEO, and all our trustees, volunteers, and HOBY UK alumni are very excited to work alongside her."