HANSEL Alliance have a new man at the helm.

The charity is the local organisation that delivers support for people in Ayrshire living with learning difficulties and/or autism.

Alastair Dewar has stepped into the role of Chairman of Hansel Alliance.

Alastair, who works for The Royal Bank of Scotland and lives in Ayr, has been a Non-Executive Director of the parent charity Hansel Foundation since 2014.

Commenting on his appointment Alastair said: “I'm delighted to be given this opportunity to be involved with Hansel. The organisation and the projects it supports make a huge difference to individuals and families in this area.

"I hope my own expertise and experience can help enhance the work we do and help others who could benefit from the specialist skills and care Hansel and its services can offer."

Alastair succeeds Derrick MacAllister, who has been in post since 1998, and continues to serve as a Director with the charity.

A retired Divisional Commander with Strathclyde Police, Derrick has been a Board Member and Trustee since 1992.

Derrick said: “Alastair’s skills and talents have already proved invaluable to Hansel and I am delighted that he has agreed to take on this governance role at a time when social care across the UK faces challenging times.

"We will always work tirelessly to represent our customers and ensure our services deliver to their needs.”

Hansel Alliance employs over 450 staff and delivers a range of support services to around 600 customers throughout Ayrshire including small group living accommodation and supported living, short breaks, respite care, employment opportunities and transition support services. Hansel Alliance reports to the Board of the Hansel Foundation, the parent charitable company responsible for the strategy and direction of the Group.