A charity which helps young people launch and grow their business has appointed a new chairman in a shift towards the digital age.

The Kent Foundation selected Julian Kirkness to the role, the chief execuitve of Kirkness Associates Software, based in Selling, near Canterbury, where he lives.

Mr Kirkness has more than 25 years experience in operating systems, originally as founder and owner of Canterbury-based Select Software UK, which was sold to The Access Group.

He has been a supporter of Kent Foundation since 2013 after becoming a business mentor and was made vice chairman last year.

He takes over from chartered engineer Allan Mowatt, who had been chairman for 20 years.

Mr Kirkness, 57, said: “Since discovering the Foundation in 2013 I have been keen to help drive it forwards in any way I can.

“I am honoured to become chairman. Although Allan Mowatt’s chairmanship will be a very tough act to follow, I am confident that with the team we have in place – both trustees and full-time staff – we are in great shape to improve our service and continue to support and encourage young Kentish entrepreneurs.”

The Kent Foundation, based in Maidstone, was launched in 1985 to give business support to aspiring young entrepreneurs.

It receives about 60 inquiries a year from young people looking to set up their own firm, typically resulting in about 25 successful companies a year.

Retiring chairman Mr Mowatt, 71, is a Kent Ambassador and former director of highways and transportation for Kent County Council, who lives in Smarden.

He said: “I am convinced that we have a board of all the necessary background and talents to carry on and develop further our work.

“I am also convinced that we have a chairman in Julian who can lead that work forward.”