THE charity behind two Winchester care homes and several others across Hampshire has appointed a new chief executive.

The Brendoncare Foundation will now be headed by Marianne Wanstall. She will take up the post on July 1 when the current CEO, Carole Sawyers, retires.

Marianne will lead the organisation as it develops its services for older people in care homes and the community across the south.

Joe MacHale, chairman said: "We are delighted to welcome Marianne to the Brendoncare team. Her wealth of experience, both professional and voluntary, will be a great asset to Brendoncare as we develop our plans for the future."

Marianne joins from the travel industry and has previously worked with the National Trust.

She is also a long-standing volunteer and trustee of the charity Across, which organises pilgrimages and holidays for people with high levels of disability, life-limiting and terminal illnesses.

“I am really looking forward to the opportunities ahead for Brendoncare," said Marianne.

"I have had a growing desire to work for an organisation that shares my personal values and of making a positive difference to people’s lives, where people’s needs are central and their wishes paramount. "Brendoncare offers a great standard of care in its homes, and is having a vital impact in reducing loneliness and isolation through clubs in the community. I am thrilled to join the team and keep building on its success.”

Carole Sawyers has been with Brendoncare for the past six years.

She said: "I wish Marianne all the very best at Brendoncare. She has a great team of staff to help her make a big difference to older people’s lives."