A regional daily editor who left his role after six years shortly before Christmas has a new job working with businesses and retailers on his former patch.

Kevan Blackadder, who edited the Cheltenham-based Gloucestershire Echo until December, has been appointed manager of the Cheltenham Business Partnership.

The organisation is made up of companies and organisations, who aim to work together for the benefit of the town.

Kevan, 54, from Woodmancote in Gloucestershire, will take up the role from today.

He told the Echo: “I am determined to make sure Cheltenham continues to punch above its weight as a shopping, business and cultural destination.

“We are very lucky as a town that we have so much to promote in addition to our unique retail offering.

“From the races through the festivals to the distinctive independent businesses, the town has so much to offer.

“If you are a local business, big or small, I’d be delighted to hear from you. I will listen to you and help you wherever I can in your dealings with the local councils, other public bodies and elsewhere.”

Partnership chairman John Forward, centre director of Regent Arcade, said: “I am delighted that Kevan is taking up this post at what is an exciting time for our vibrant and growing town.

“There are many important changes happening in Cheltenham and it is important that the views of the town’s businesses are represented throughout. I am looking forward to working with Kevan to ensure this continues to happen.”

Cheltenham Borough Council leader Steve Jordan added: “Kevan has the ideal background for the role as he has always worked closely with key stake holders in the town.”

Kevan, who was succeeded as Echo editor by Matt Holmes, was one of 12 regional daily editors to leave their roles last year.