FORESTRY England has announced Mike Seddon as its new chief executive.

With almost 30 years of experience in forestry and forestry policy, Mr Seddon took up the role last month.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Seddon said: “Forestry England manages one of the country’s greatest public assets: the nation’s forests.

“The need for public forests came from tough times between the two World Wars and I am incredibly proud to be leading the organisation towards another hundred years. From an emerging climate crisis to wildlife decline, the challenges for the next century will be tough, but I am driven to expand on the great things the nation’s forests already achieve today.

“Our forests welcome more than 230 million visits every year – and we will make forests even more accessible by planting some forests closer to where people live.

“As they grow they will create places to relax and improve people’s physical and mental health. All of the forests in our care will continue to work for society and we will increase their natural capital. From cleaner air and reduced flooding to walking trails and play equipment, we are making wildlife-rich, connected landscapes.”

He added: “All forests, and the wildlife that depends on them, will need to survive and thrive in a changing climate. We will also need more forests to absorb carbon while they grow and we can keep that carbon locked up by using more timber products.

“The challenge is huge and we are ambitious: we want to connect everyone to the nation’s forests.”