Jim Walker has taken charge at Cumbria Tourism as the organisation's temporary managing director.

Mr Walker succeeds Ian Stephens and will hold the position for three months while a permanent position holder is found.

Mr Walker is director and chairman of Rydal Hall in Ambleside and chairman of Eden Tourism Network. He was formerly chief executive of Lake District Estates and has also been head of tourism services at South Lakeland District Council.

He said: “I am passionate about the future of Cumbria Tourism and believe it is ideally placed to support the visitor economy in the county.

"I’m looking forward to working in this temporary role to help guide the organisation over the next few months, ensuring that Cumbria Tourism continues to respond to the needs of the industry and seizes any opportunities to lead Cumbria’s tourism sector into an even stronger position.”

Mr Walker lives in Appleby and will operate from offices in Staveley.

Tom Newbould was announced as Mr Stephens' permanent replacement last month but had to withdraw because of personal circumstances.