Former regional press deputy editor Tony Loynes is the new accreditation chief with the National Council for the Training of Journalists.

As part of his role, Tony will also work with NCTJ colleagues to establish a new cross-media accreditation board.

The board will oversee the development of accreditation, aiming to ensure pre-entry journalism training is of a high standard and produces employable and skilled trainees.

Tony, who begins his new role on Monday, was deputy editor with the Ipswich-based East Anglian Daily Times, and later moved into magazines and was most recently editorial director of Wilmington Business Information.

The post’s previous holder Glen Oldershaw, who joined the NCTJ in March, is the charity’s new marketing and communications manager.

Tony said: “Wherever I have worked I have always been passionate about the journalism.

“I believe this role is made for me and I am very grateful to the NCTJ for giving me the chance to play a part in the future of my profession at such a crucial time in its development.”

NCTJ chief executive Joanne Butcher said: “As head of accreditation, Tony will manage our crucial partnership with universities, further education colleges and private providers.

“In a converged media world he will also help us broaden our standard and forge new relationships.

“Tony’s extensive experience, contacts and passion for good journalism make him perfectly suited to this important and challenging role.”