A long-serving regional editor who stepped down a year ago has bounced back as co-ordinator of a charity dedicated to improving the lives of older people.

Gerry Keighley, left, bowed out as editor of the South Wales Argus last February after 18 years in the hot seat and a 30-year career in journalism.

Now he has been appointed as campaigns co-ordinator for the Welsh charity Age Cymru.

Gerry will be working on projects including Rule Out Abuse -the charity’s campaign to tackle abuse of the elderly – as well as spearheading its work around fuel poverty in Wales.

Said Gerry:  “This is a total change of direction for me and offers a new challenge working for a cause I strongly support – that is working to improve the lives of older people in Wales.

“Age Cymru is at the forefront of the battle to promote a better life for older people, whether they are robust or frail, on many different fronts. I am excited by the challenge of using my background and my contacts to help further its work and to keep older people’s rights at the forefront of the social agenda.”

Gerry is no stranger to campaigning, having led to a successful battle while Argus editor to release up to £2bn compensation to ailing former miners and their families.

During his tenure, the paper also campaigned strongly for city status for Newport and Gerry was a member of the committee which led the town’s successful bid to be upgraded to a city in 2002.

Graeme Francis, Age Cymru’s Head of Policy and Public Affairs, said:  “We’re thrilled to have Gerry joining the team at Age Cymru. He brings with him a wealth of experience, knowledge and influencing skills that will serve him well in his new role.

“I have no doubt Gerry will be a powerful and passionate campaigner on behalf of older people and a valued and respected colleague.”