CHARITY Macmillan Caring Locally has appointed a new chairman of trustees.

Keith Lomas, who was chief executive and town clerk of Bournemouth Borough Council, will be replaced by former director and general manager of the Daily Echo Mike Emsley.

The unit provides specialist palliative care to patients with advanced, progressive and incurable illnesses such as cancer.

Keith Lomas has been a trustee of the charity since 1978 and became chairman in 1996. He has been responsible for transforming the charity and growing support as well as spearheading fundraising campaigns, including one to build a new Macmillan Unit at Christchurch Hospital in the next few years.

Keith, who will remain as a trustee, said: “Much has changed in 20 years and I now feel that the charity is in a better position to move forward. I’m extremely grateful to all those who have helped me to develop the charity. My main thanks go to the local people who have wholeheartedly supported and engaged with the charity over the years. I would also like to thank the incredible volunteers, amazing staff and nurses who offer hands-on support to our many patients and their families.”

His replacement Mike Emsley became a trustee at Macmillan Caring Locally in 1998. He takes on the role as chairman following 35 years in the newspaper industry in Leeds, Barnsley, Southampton, and Bournemouth. He also worked for 10 years in advertising, marketing, and PR as a director and CEO. As a former director and President of the Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and chairman of SafeWise for 15 years, Mike brings a huge range of experiences to his new position.

Mike said: “I’m absolutely honoured to be representing Macmillan Caring Locally at this critical time, Keith has done an incredible job over the years and I’m delighted to have been chosen to carry on the great work of this remarkable charity. It really is a testament to the charity that they have over 100 volunteers working at the unit – and every time I go there it really does have a fantastic glow about it. Exciting times lie ahead!”

For more information go to macmillanlocal.org