FORMER Guernsey government minister Paul Luxon has taken up his new position as Condor Ferries chief executive officer.

His appointment was announced at the end of last year, but he's spent the intervening months completing his term as Health and Social Services Minister in the States of Guernsey.

Speaking via video message to Condor Ferries staff, Mr Luxon said: "So, it is May 1st, a day I’ve been looking forward to and a really important opportunity for me to be able to introduce myself to all of you, my Condor colleagues."

Referencing the challenges faced by the company over the past year, he added: "It must have been an incredibly testing time for all of you individually and I want to thank you and recognise the efforts you’ve made."

Executive chairman Russell Kew welcomed Mr Luxon to his new position, adding: "The board and I look forward to supporting him and our dedicated managers and staff in delivering a service of which everyone can be proud.”