Carlisle giftware firm Enesco has a new managing director.

Rob Freestone has been promoted to the post from his role as finance and operations director, a position he had held since 2006.

American company Enesco acquired Cumbrian miniature cottage firm Lilliput Lane in 1994.

Mr Freestone, who took over as managing director from Ken Johnson on his retirement, started his career with the company in 1988 when he became finance director with Lilliput Lane.

He said: “Although many of the brands we sell, such as Disney, Willow Tree and Beatrix Potter, are household names, and despite us being one of the bigger companies in the area, the name Enesco is relatively unknown.

"We have a lot to be proud of, including an average length of service among our 150 employees of over 12 years, exporting to more than 40 countries and regular award-winning products.

"These are both exciting and challenging times as we respond to the changing face of retail, by getting closer to our end consumer through social media and increased focus on online business.

"My predecessor, Ken Johnson, had a favourite saying of ‘The best is yet to come’, and I very much hope to carry on that ethos.”

Mr Freestone was a key part of the flotation team which secured the listing of Lilliput Group plc on the London Stock Exchange in 1993.

After Enesco took over Lilliput he became vice president group finance of the newly formed Enesco European Giftware Group Ltd - now Enesco Ltd.

He was instrumental in several acquisitions as the European operations expanded, including Bilston and Battersea Enamels, Fine Ceramic Transfers, Dartington Crystal and Country Artists.

Enesco's head office is based on Carlisle's Kingstown Industrial Estate.