Alison Barnes, Natural England's regional director for London, has been appointed as new chief executive of the New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA).

Barnes is currently organisational lead on landscape, the Thames Gateway, green infrastructure and the Olympics in her current role, as well as chairing Greening the Gateway Partnership. Prior to her role with Natural England, Barnes has also worked for Dumfries and Galloway Council and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) in Scotland.

NFNPA interim chief executive Barrie Foley said: "We have finally found someone who I believe is good for the forest. She is very outward looking and is keen to engage with all parties." Barnes will take up the role in June, which will involve a month-long transition period.