A NEW chairman has been appointed to the Board of Trustees for the Fortescue Garden Trust, the independent charity which owns and manages The Garden House at Buckland Monachorum.

He is Peter Hodgson, who took over the role on April 1, succeeding Sir Robin Nicholson, who had held the post since 2002.

Peter is senior partner of chartered accountants Hodgsons, which has offices in Launceston and Falmouth. He was appointed High Sheriff of Cornwall for 2005/06 and a Deputy Lieutenant of Cornwall in 2006.

Among his many charity appointments, Peter has been chairman of University College Falmouth, chairman of Mount House School in Tavistock and also chairman of the finance committee of the Cornwall branch of the British Red Cross. He was made a CBE in 1992.

A spokesperson for the Fortescue Garden Trust said: 'We are delighted that Peter Hodgson has agreed to become the new chair. His expertise and extensive leadership experience in the public sector will ensure that The Garden House continues to develop as a place of horticultural excellence, education and training as well as providing enjoyment and inspiration for all who visit the West Devon garden.'

Peter said: 'I am honoured to take over the role of chairman from Sir Robin Nicholson, who has so ably led the trust for a decade. Last year he launched the Fortescue Garden Golden Jubilee Appeal, which has enabled us to create a wonderful new two-acre Jubilee Arboretum.

'Looking forward, I welcome the opportunity of working with the trustees, staff and volunteers to ensure a confident and exciting future for The Garden House.'