A CUSTOMER care manager with a business background has been appointed by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council as part of its efforts to improve services for residents.

Ingrid Weatherup took up her role on January 28 and one of her main tasks is to create a new system for handling both brickbats and bouquets from those the council serves.

She will help to ensure staff are given the necessary guidance, skills and support to strengthen relations with the public.

Ms Weatherup, who is originally from Belfast, joins the council from Nortel Networks, where she was working as a customer services executive. She has previously worked for Sainsbury supermarkets as a customer services manager and has a BA(Hons) in European Business Studies and diplomas in marketing and administrative management.