The Worcestershire Wildlife Trust has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer.

Mike Perry, the current head of resources at the trust, will take over the role in January.

The trust is a charity whose volunteers and members work to protect and enhance the almost 3,000 wildlife and wild places across the county.

Read more: Worcester Warriors bid to re-join professional rugby

The trust is one of 46 Wildlife Trusts across the UK.

He will replace Colin Raven, who is stepping down from the role after nearly 30 years as chief executive.

Mr Perry said: "I am honoured to be appointed as the trust’s next chief executive officer.

"Having lived most of my life in Worcestershire, I care deeply about the county’s brilliant landscapes and wildlife."

He added: "With nature continuing to decline across the country, the work of the trust is more important than ever.

"I look forward to working with our excellent staff team, wonderful volunteers and vital partners to support Worcestershire’s wildlife and wild spaces."

Mr Raven has been with the trust for 38 years, almost 30 of those as chief executive.

Under his leadership, the trust has grown significantly.

Christianne Tipping, chair of trustees, said: "Worcestershire Wildlife Trust would not be the respected and effective organisation it is today without Colin's leadership, foresight and energy.

"He has overseen the expansion of the trust's reserves, steered the growth of the organisation from humble beginnings to a 40-strong team of professionals and created a culture in which relationships between staff, trustees, volunteers, members, supporters and external partners have thrived."

"We are immensely grateful to Colin for investing so much of himself into the trust and we wish him all the very best in his next chapter."

Ms Tipping added: "We are delighted to have appointed Mike Perry as Colin's successor.

"From a field of very strong candidates, Mike came out on top, proffering a personal vision and plan for the future that builds on the solid foundation Colin leaves behind.

"The trust is going to be in very safe hands and my fellow trustees and I look forward very much to working with Mike."