The new boss of Lydd Airport has been announced.

Air Marshal Clifford Spink is the new managing director.

He replaces Zaher Deir, who stepped down last month.

Mr Spink, a pilot who served in the Royal Air Force for 40 years and commanded a Tornado detachment during Operation Desert Storm in the Gulf in 1991, has held the position of non-executive chairman at the airport since 2004.

He has been an active member of Lydd’s senior management team and has been a strong supporter of the multi-million pound development proposals.

Air Marshal Spink said: “I’m taking over the reins at a very exciting time for the airport. I’m looking forward to working closely with staff, stakeholders, local councils and the business sector to deliver a first-class modern regional airport and aircraft service facility which will create vital new jobs for local communities and help revitalise the economy of Shepway.”

Air Marshal Spink served in the RAF from 1963 to 2003. Since then he has become involved in numerous business interests within the aviation industry.