THE Secretary of State has appointed Burley-in-Wharfedale resident Derek Twine to join the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.

This is a voluntary role, with a remit including planning, communities, heritage, the environment and access across the Dales.

Derek is formerly Chief Executive for the UK Scout Association, and has held national governance roles with the National Trust and the Church Urban Fund.

He is also an Honorary Canon and Chairman of Council at Bradford Cathedral and Development Coordinator at All Saints Church Ilkley.

He was appointed CBE in 2007 for services to young people.

Derek said: “I’m delighted and excited to accept this appointment to the Authority.

“The Yorkshire Dales cover a beautiful natural environment, they are full of wonderful people, and they carry a rich heritage.

“The Authority is committed to supporting its communities, promoting opportunities for enjoyment and education by an increasing diversity of visitors, and conserving the beauty and heritage of the environment and its people.” He sees the immediate challenges and opportunities as: “to ensure post-Covid preparations for residents, workers and visitors, to address post-Brexit impact on farming, sustainable land management and access, and to ensure affordable homes for workers and young families across the Dales.”

“There is also a need to encourage a wide range of suitable employment opportunities both in traditional rural jobs and also in new ways of working,” added Derek.

Derek and his wife live in Burley-in-Wharfedale, and they enjoy walking in the Dales and on the moors with their adult children and their grandchildren who live nearby.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park (YDNP) authority conserves and enhances the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Yorkshire Dales and promotes opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the area by the public.